Howard: Rooney is world's best

07 June 2010 15:21
Tim Howard has hailed Wayne Rooney the best striker in the world but believes the United States' own forwards can trouble England on Saturday.[LNB] Howard has first-hand experience of Rooney from their two years together at Manchester United before he moved to Everton in 2006 after the signing of Edwin van der Sar.[LNB]He has immense respect for the 24-year-old who is pivotal to England's hopes of doing themselves justice in South Africa during the next month.[LNB]But Howard has also been impressed with the current USA front pair of Edson Buddle and Robert Findley who looked sharp during the weekend victory over Australia in Johannesburg.[LNB]Howard said: "I get asked if I am looking forward to facing Wayne Rooney. I don't think I ever look forward to facing Wayne Rooney.[LNB]"He is the best striker in the world and has enjoyed a fantastic season.[LNB]"He is a fantastic player, so I'll be very careful what I say![LNB]"But we also have Edson and Robbie who are playing fantastic together, individuallly and collectively, with the way they are linking up.[LNB]"They looked dangerous against Australia and hopefully they will be dangerous for a few more games coming up.[LNB]"It seems everything Edson touches is a goal and Robbie is creating so many chances.[LNB]"It is important the guys are clicking for what is basically a three-game tournament (to qualify) - and those guys are at the moment."[LNB]Howard is disappointed that another former United team-mate in England skipper Rio Ferdinand will miss the tournament through his knee ligament injury suffered in training on Friday.[LNB]But he is confident Fabio Capello's side will recover from this setback in time for the USA clash.[LNB]Howard, 31, said: "I am devastated for Rio as I am sure most of his team-mates and his friends are.[LNB]"I don't know how it will affect the team but I think they are all very strong characters.[LNB]"As the week goes on, I am sure they will be fully prepared for the game ahead."[LNB]Howard has taken heart from the gradual improvement in the USA side during their build-up to the World Cup.[LNB]He said: "I saw an improvement from the Czech game, I saw an improvement to the Turkey game and again in the Australia game.[LNB]"I think it is still a work in progress and we are trying to get better.[LNB]"There have been some huge positives.[LNB]"We are hoping things are starting to click, we feel good about our last couple of results.[LNB]"Training has been good and we are in a very positive spirit."

Source: Team_Talk