England News

• Nickname:Three Lions
• Founded: 1872
• Manager:Roy Hodgson

• Ground:Wembley Stadium
• Capacity:90000

Sven ponders Roo start

17 Jun 2006 - 12:42:47

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England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson says he is tempted to hand the fit-again Wayne Rooney a starting spot in the Group B showdown with Sweden.

Rooney made a remarkable difference to a lacklustre performance against Trinidad & Tobago, coming on as a second-half substitute to inspire England to a 2-0 victory.

That leaves Eriksson's side needing only to avoid defeat by Sweden to top their group, with the Swede admitting: "Of course it is tempting to let him start.

"It is important he played, but it is important we don't risk anything.

"I am stubborn. I was convinced he could take part in this game and he did, so I am very happy. We were convinced we were right.

"After a lot of discussions in which I was involved and above my head, the medical experts decided to come and I was extremely thankful.

"Here we are with Rooney on the pitch. Perfect. It's good for the team and it's good for the fans.

"He's a young man. I think he will be making progress day by day. It will be very quick."