Debate continues about England striker Wayne Rooney's temperament
Wayne Rooney(credit:
gordonflood.com)
Wayne Rooney’s temper continues to be the subject of debate just days before the World Cup opener against the United States on June 12.
The Manchester United striker was booked for launching a verbal tirade at referee Jeff Selogilwe during England’s 3-0 friendly win over Platinum Stars on Monday.
The official later warned Rooney, sent off during the last World Cup for stamping, he will risk a red card for an outburst like that at this summer’s tournament.
But John Terry and Rio Ferdinand have both come to Rooney’s defence, saying his temperament should not be questioned.
Terry said: “From what we have seen in the last two or three years, I honestly feel he has grown up a lot.”
Ferdinand added: “I don’t see him having a problem at all. Wayne’s disciplinary record has been magnificent over the last couple of years, since the incident in Germany.”
However, former England captain Terry Butcher insists there is reason for concern
He told The Sun: “The Americans have already said they are going to wind him up and if I was playing against him I would do the same as well.
“I would stand on his toes, poke him, pinch him and do anything to wind him up – even belt him one because his temperament concerns me.
“If you are successful at winding up Rooney you have a really good chance of not only stopping him, but England as well.
“Something can always happen with him, something could snap.”
Rooney is 10/1 with Paddy Power to be the first England player to be sent off in South Africa.