Euro Update: Rooney Ready

I have been reading today about Wayne Rooney's optimism heading into his first game at the Euro's and England's last in the group stage. I for one, cannot wait to see how he plays. I think most are anticipating the explosion of passion and desire, something we have seen him deliver on multiple occasions for club and country. This could be a trigger for the team to really kick on and show that we are good enough to be there or there abouts towards the end of the tournament. The team showed great fight against Sweden last Friday. They were clearly inspired towards the end of the game with some excellent moments from little Theo and Danny Wellbeck spinning the game back around. However, i cant help that with Rooney in the team, that balance and composure will prevent us going behind in the first place.

Both Sweden goals were lapses in concentration, the second much more severe than the first, it was like our boys were confused with which way was up for the first 5 minutes and before we knew it, it was 1-2. This should not be happening at this level. Scotty Parker and Stevie G cannot carry the ball with the youthful vigour that Jack Wiltshire or Tom Cleverly will do in the future in that shuttle role in the centre of midfield, but the still inspire and fight. Add Rooney playing in behind Wellbeck or Caroll who both have shown that they can perform, and we will see a balance that has not existed through the centre of the park for England in a long time. Ashley Young was previously moved out of the central role and moved into his preferred slot on the left and should stay there. His performances havent been great, but he has shown what he can do when paired with Rooney all season with United and it will be interesting to see them back together.

We all know Rooney will provide cover for the two centre midfielders who look as if they will have to pay every minute of every game despite looking jaded after the hour mark in both games so far. Rooney loves to come back win the ball, move it on, and as he showed with his goal tally this season at United, he can score goals, big goals, on big occasions. Roy Hodgson spoke earlier of the same belief that Wayne is eager to get on the pitch and turn in a 'Pele-esque' performance. We all know he is a world class talent and is capable of pulling off world class feats. Rooney was born to play international football with his drive and passion and his sheer love of performing for his country. Whether or not the system works against the Ukraine later today, one thing is for sure, Wayne is back and he will be like a bull at a gate this evening. I feel both England and the tournament need someone to set the game alight and 'Wazza' is just the man for the job.

Also, this is the first bit of International tournament that Rooney's new barnet will see.... so make it an occasion Wayne...