Mystery surrounds Van Nistelrooy departure

LONDON, May 7 (Reuters) Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy left Old Trafford today before his side's Premier League game against Charlton Athletic.

''Ruud van Nistelrooy has gone home and will not play against Charlton,'' United said in a statement.

''We are not prepared to say anything as we are concentrating on the game against Charlton.'' Speculation has surrounded the Dutchman's future at the club with the 29-year-old apparently falling out of favour with Alex Ferguson in recent months.

Frenchman Louis Saha and teenage Italian striker Giuseppe Rossi start up front against Charlton. Second-placed United can secure the second automatic Champions League place with a win over the London side.

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