Fabio Capello: Wayne Rooney will play against Switzerland
England manager Fabio Capello has confirmed that Wayne Rooney will play in Tuesday night’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Switzerland, and revealed that the star striker is happy to play despite allegations surrounding his private life.
The Manchester United forward has dominated tabloid headlines over recent days, but will still play for England after he flew to Basle with the rest of the squad.
“Yes, he will play,” the Italian manager said. “I spoke to him and he was happy to play.
“I hope the performance of Wayne Rooney will be the same as Wembley.”
Rooney played a key part in all four of England’s goals against Bulgaria at Wembley last Friday, but these latest tabloid revelations were the last thing that Capello needed, as he bids to continue rebuilding his own damaged reputation after the World Cup.
“We are focused on the game, not the private life of the players,” Capello added. “I’m sure he will play very well tomorrow.”
Back in February, John Terry was stripped of the captain’s armband after allegations surfaced over his personal life, but it seems that Rooney will not be punished after these latest rumours.
Steven Gerrard wore the captain’s armband in South Africa, and echoed Capello’s sentiments in this afternoon’s pre-match press conference.
“Once the game starts I’m sure Wayne will be focused,” Gerrard said. “I’m expecting a big performance from Wayne, as I do every time I play with him.”
Meanwhile, Capello admitted that he’s still yet to decide on who will replace the injured Michael Dawson in central-defence. However, the Italian did state that Gary Cahill, Matthew Upson and Joleon Lescott are all in contention.
But it’s the under-pressure Rooney who all the attention will be firmly focused on tomorrow evening.
For the 24-year-old, at least, getting away from England couldn’t have come at a better time.
Tags: