Rooney ready to rumble

WORLD CUP:

WAYNE Rooney has vowed to prove himself on football's biggest stage and the England striker is feeling "sharp and hungry" ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Algeria in Cape Town.

Rooney admits there is room for improvement in his own performance following England's 1–1 draw with the United States in their opening World Cup game.

He is keen to live up to his reputation as one of the most lethal forwards in world football after a disappointing 2006 tournament in Germany where he lacked sharpness following a broken foot.

The Manchester United star also had an injury–hit end to the club season following an ankle injury suffered against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

But he is adamant he is now firing on all cylinders.

Rooney said: "This is a great opportunity for England and for me to prove myself at world level. If I don't do that, I'd be disappointed.

"I haven't proved myself on the world stage yet. The last World Cup was a disappointment for me.

"I'm looking to do well in this one.”


We will qualify, says Wayne

Rooney is convinced England will ease through their World Cup group.

The Three Lions travel to Cape Town for tomorrow's meeting with Algeria knowing their hopes of reaching the last 16 will be hanging by a thread unless they secure three points – and Rooney is adamant there is no need to fear.

"The manager is confident and I'm a confident person too," he said.

"I believe we will qualify from this group – I don't think there will be any problems about that.

"But the performance is not something I am too worried about.

“The only thing I am concerned about is winning.”