Soccer

» dantilles - From the BBC Sports website:

I agree that it is worth taking Rooney to the World Cup. Even his presence in the squad gives everyone a lift (and all the attention on him takes the pressure off other players). Having said that though, it is really doubtful that he will play a major role in this tournament. I mean Owen broke his foot in December (different circumstances I know), returned to training in March or April, and was still struggling to make any impact by May. No matter how good Rooney is, if he doesn't start proper training until 14th June we won't see him anywhere near his best for a while.

Where Eriksson has really gambled though is in only picking 4 strikers. If Owen gets injured or suspended and Rooney isn't fit then all we're left with is Crouch and Walcott, neither of whom is likely to strike fear into opposition defences. We needed another proven goalscorer in the squad. Our midfield is potentially full of goals but we can't just rely on them.

-- posted by dantilles