Rooney may start for England against Sweden in World Cup
18/6/2006 10:21
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson is tempted to play Wayne Rooney from the
start in their last Group B game against Sweden, which will decide the winner of
the group.
Eriksson said: "He looks fine. I spoke to him and the physios and
there were no reactions after the match.
"His words were that he's ready to
play 90 minutes today. I'm thinking about it but I haven't decided.
"I would
like to start him but I will ask opinions from doctors and physios, and it is
important to look at him in training before making that decision.
"If he's
going to start the game then people must convince me he's going to play at least
one hour.
"If he can only play 45 minutes for example, it's better for him to
come on in the second half.
"He has been telling me he's fit and ready for
the last three weeks."
Eriksson admitted the difference Rooney brings to
England's side is a crucial factor.
He said: "England are a different team
with Rooney. He's fantastic.
"He is perfect in everything when he is 100%,
but, as a linking player, he keeps the ball up there and gives the team time to
come out.
"He gives us more combinations in the last third.
"Michael Owen
and Wayne is one option but I know they lack games. You would be starting with
two who might not reach 90 minutes.
"It's tempting to do it anyhow but I
haven't decided yet."
Xinhua News
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