The winger had been expected to arrive in Cardiff on Monday but United have exercised their right not to release the player until four days before an international, meaning he will not now join up with his team-mates until late on Tuesday.

Wales play England at Old Trafford on Saturday October 9 in a match that could be decisive for their chances of qualifying for Germany 2006.

A United spokesman said the club was simply acting to ensure Giggs was properly rested after the Premiership match against Middlesbrough on Sunday and manager Sir Alex Ferguson justified the decision by saying: "We are doing nothing that is not exactly what the rule states."