The striker, who could miss four qualifying matches, was hurt in yesterday's 0-0 draw with Reading in the first game of Manchester United's Premier League defense. He was diagnosed with a hairline fracture.

The 21-year-old is definitely out of the Sept. 8 visit by Israel and the home game against Russia four days later, as well as next week's exhibition against Germany at Wembley.

Rooney could also miss a home match with Estonia on Oct. 13 and the away game at Russia on Oct. 17, leaving England without its star striker for four games crucial to its hopes of reaching Euro 2008.

England is fourth in its seven-team qualifying group after seven of 12 matches, but must finish in the top two to reach next year's tournament in Austria and Switzerland.

While Manchester United can call upon Argentina international Carlos Tevez to replace Rooney, England coach Steve McClaren has to choose from some less glamorous options to fill the hole in the national side.

"It's a bad blow for England, there's no question about that," United manager Alex Ferguson said Monday. "I'm disappointed for Steve. I spoke to him last night. I could sense Steve's disappointment."