Football News

Playing for their country is the greatest honour that can be bestowed upon any footballer. There is no prouder achievement than pulling the national jersey and lining up for the anthems.

It has emerged today that Manchester United star Wayne Rooney felt he was fit enough to play in both of England’s qualifiers, but was kept out of the squad by manager Alex Ferguson, amidst claims that he was unfit to play.

Rooney contradicted his manager’s claims as he told Man United’s TV station MUTV: “I'm fine. I feel I could have played a few weeks ago and I'm a bit disappointed I haven't. But it was probably best in the long run.”

The Man United website claims this is merely typical of Rooney's enthusiasm and hunger for football.

Cynics amongst us will note the importance of Rooney to a United side who have found it difficult to find the back of the net this season. Expectations are forever high at Old Trafford and trophies will be sought by the fans, a cause that Rooney will be expected to contribute towards.

Rooney was quick to step back in-line with his manager’s decision not to let him join up with the England squad, telling MUTV: “I've been dying to play. I wanted to make sure the manager knew I was ready to come back. The manager and physio’s have been a bit cautious and rightly so - it's a long season.”

Source: goal.com