Chicharito steps up as Manchester United face striker crisis

So, maybe that headline is a touch hyperbolic. But maybe just a touch.

It is being reported today that both Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney have pulled out of their respective national team friendlies this week.

Robin van Persie is joining Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney on the injury list after pulling out of Holland’s squad today.

The 29-year-old Dutch striker did play the full 90 minutes during the 3-2 win over Aston Villa on Saturday – his English strike partner Rooney limped off ten minutes before the end – but has decided to miss the international fixture with a thigh problem.

>Rooney will not feature in England’s friendly against Sweden n Wednesday, and although Sir Alex Ferguson will not be concerned about their international absence, nerves will be on tenterhooks until the full extent of their strikers’ injuries are revealed

That uncertainty will haunt fantasy managers this week, especially as there has been a lot of investment in the very expensive duo.

In opposition to that news, you have Sir Alex Ferguson's announcement - well, almost announcement - after Saturday's match against Aston Villa that Javier Hernandez is likely to start against Norwich this week.

When you score a hat-trick, you pick yourself. I think he'll be playing next week.

And while "playing" doesn't necessarily mean "starting", it's a pretty good guide that he's in line for time, and hopefully goals, against Norwich.