Source: Daily_Mail
Rooney warns England must improve or forget about winning the World Cup
Wayne Rooney believes England have a lot of improving to do if they are to stand a chance of lifting the World Cup in South Africa next year. [LNB]After missing out on even qualifying for Euro 2008 under Steve McClaren, the Three Lions have made giant strides under new coach Fabio Capello. [LNB]However, ahead of Saturday's high-profile friendly with five-time winners Brazil, Rooney laid bare his feelings on England's standing in the current game. [LNB] Relaxed: Rooney (left) and John Terry lead the way as England train this week[LNB]'Of course we are in with a chance,' he said. 'But there is a lot of hard work to do yet and there is a lot of improving that we have to do if we are going to win it. [LNB]'Our results have been better in qualification than they have in friendlies. [LNB]'We did beat Germany but Brazil are No 1 in the world and this is a massive game for us. We need to play some good football if we are going to win.'[LNB]With Rio Ferdinand and Steven Gerrard among the big names missing out at the weekend, there will be more pressure on Rooney to perform if England are going to achieve their fourth victory over Brazil. [LNB] It will be Rooney's first meeting with the world's most glamorous team. But, in a week that has been dominated by the diving issue following David Ngog's controversial tumble in Liverpool's draw with Birmingham at Anfield on Monday, the Manchester United striker will not be tempted to dive in order to get a result. [LNB] 'As a footballer, I try to be honest,' he stressed. 'But there are some times when you go down and it looks worse than it is. [LNB]'You might be trying to protect yourself from a defender trying to kick you and are merely trying to get out of the way. [LNB]'On other occasions, it is a blatant dive. You have to try and get the balance right.'[LNB] Frank Lampard out of England v Brazil as Chelsea midfielder heads home with thigh injuryEngland boss Fabio Capello's pleasant problem! It used to be who to play on the left - now it's who will be left behindEngland v Brazil: As the two great footballing powerhouses collide in a famous friendly, Sportsmail remembers the key clashesEngland v Brazil: Locals excited... but they will be watching the reserves!Fabio's right to snub Owen - but I'd still take him to World Cup, claims Shearer Luke away now: Young in second England snub to Fabio CapelloFabio Capello loves the Spurs stars, claims England hopeful Tom Huddlestone [LNB] Explore more:People:David Ngog, Fabio Capello, Wayne Rooney, John Terry, Rio Ferdinand, Steven GerrardPlaces:United Kingdom, Brazil, South Africa, Germany
