The World Cup offers the perfect stage for stars to be born, and for those already talented a chance to confirm their greatness, for Wayne Rooney however the spectacle that is the World Cup has been more of a hindrance as the Man Utd striker has seemingly struggled to cope with a nations expectation. But, now Roy Hodgson is prepared to give Rooney the chance to play in his favoured number ten role in what is a make or break game for Rooney and the England side.
Perhaps as a nation we have placed too much faith in a player who burst on to the scene at a young age and has failed to progress, he’s the best player we have but that doesn’t mean he is a great player; perhaps it is a false illusion that we believe England are a better team than they actually are.
In fairness to the Merseyside born striker against Italy he was played on the left side, not his most usual role even if he has played there for Manchester United before now seems a mistake. Sterling had a great impact against Italy and many eyebrows may be raised if Rooney takes his place back. However, if England are to get the best from him, he needs to play in a more favourable position, something that Roy is looking to do in the upcoming game.
It can be argued that even when he isn’t playing well Rooney is an asset take the cross to Sturridge as an example, however on that left side he was a liability it had almost seemed, arguably, that he had lost his pace and that his legs had gone. This was one game however and everyone has a bad game, but we need more moments of brilliance from the man that has a point to prove; which you would think would give him the determination and drive to succeed. Even so, he can’t let his frustration get the better of him.
It would take a brave man to drop Wayne Rooney, and it appears Roy is not one of those brave enough. The future looks bright for England but, if Rooney wants to be a part of it he needs to deliver once and for all on the World Stage.
