Hodgson has also said he is not afraid to take a tough call regarding Rooney’s participation at the World Cup…
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England manager Roy Hodgson has hinted that he would not hesitate to drop England’s talismanic striker Wayne Rooney if the situation warrants him doing so, but completely refutes the claims made by Rooney’s former United teammate Paul Scholes that the player is past his best, reports the Telegraph.
The 66-year old manager insists that he still believes in Rooney’s abilities and that he has not picked the Manchester United striker on past reputation.
Rooney has gotten plenty of stick for his lacklustre performances of late with his own former teammate Paul Scholes questioning his place in the squad by stating that the 28-year old is no longer the force he once was.
Hodgson though stood up for the ace striker and said, “I’d like to think that, as a manager for a long time, I have the capacity to make the decisions that are necessary. Secondly, of course I don’t think Wayne’s past his best. I’ve selected him in a 23-man squad that I’m very proud of. I believe in Wayne Rooney. He’s still a young man.”
Both Hodgson and England skipper Steven Gerrard disagree wholeheartedly with Scholes though as they feel that the English ace striker still has plenty left in the tank.
Despite having the backing of England’s management, it’s likely that Rooney will be kept on his toes by emerging forwards like Daniel Sturridge and Raheem Sterling in the English ranks.