Rooney's back inspires England
9/6/2006 15:16
With Rooney back to the team, the England squad is more likely to win its
World Cup group match against Paraguay in Frankfurt tomorrow.
Even it is not
clear whether the 20-year-old would join its teammates to meet Paraguay's
challenge, England coach Eriksson still thinks it is inspiring for the squad to
start their mission to win the World Cup.
"The good news from Wednesday
evening and today is that Rooney has no more injury. He's injury free," said the
England coach.
The 20-year-old returned to England's camp late on Wednesday
after a scan on his broken foot in Manchester. Rooney has been out of action
since breaking a metatarsal in his right foot against Chelsea on 29
April.
There were fears the injury would rule the Manchester United striker
out of the entire tournament, but now it looks more likely that he will be fit
for the opener against Paraguay on Saturday.
"Now, it's up to us to get him
match fit and, when we think he's match fit, I'm prepared to take in any
specialist we want to take in," added Eriksson.
If Rooney took part in the
opener, Eriksson will have more choices. Robinson is a clear first choice
between the posts, as are Cole. Gary Neville as full-backs. Jamie Carragher
could be set at left back, while Rio Ferdinanad and John Terry should start in
central defence.
Facing Paraguay, Eriksson might start with a "flat four"
midfield. Up in the front, Owen and Croach's pair would be Eriksson's first
choice as Rooney is not fully fit.
Fourth in the South American qualifiers,
and a dogged, organized defensive team, Paraguay might make some trouble for
England during the game.
On their qualifying road, Anibal Ruiz's team managed
a 1-0 victory at home to Argentina, having earlier held the two-time FIFA World
Cup winners to a 0-0 draw in Buenos Aires.
So Paraguay do not lack of
confidence, even their veteran player Jose Cardozo has been forced to pull out
of their World Cup squad.
"We have very good defenders because one of the
main characteristics of Paraguayan football is our good aerial play," said coach
Ruiz.
The good news for Paraguay is that Santa Cruz has recovered from an
injury and will be fit for the opener on Saturday.
"I am recovering and
feeling well. I think I will start but I don't know. It is up to the coach, "
said Santa Cruz.
"We know what mighty opponents England are. They have very
good players, but we do as well and we have the ability to neutralize them. We
have confidence in our team and I have confidence that they'll have a great
match." added Ruiz.
Xinhua
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