Source: Daily_Mail
Wayne Rooney hailed for forgetting strife to steer England to victory
Steven Gerrard has praised Wayne Rooney for delivering a 'fantastic' response to the storm surrounding his private life. Rooney - who has been accused of cheating behind his wife Coleen's back - grabbed the opening goal in England's 3-1 victory over Switzerland in Basle - a win that Gerrard also believes helped ease the pain of their World Cup woe. In the spotlight: Wayne Rooney is congratulated on his goal in BasleAfter Rooney had poked England ahead in the early stages goals from Adam Johnson and Darren Bent sealed a second Euro 2012 qualifying triumph in four days. Gerrard said: 'All the talk in the build-up was about Wayne but we showed a great togetherness and the early goal for Wayne did him the world of good. 'Over the two games he's been fantastic for us. People said the Swiss players might try to wind him up but I wouldn't say that was the case. On the march: Steven Gerrard battles for the ball against Gokhan Inler 'I think they are an honest team and they have a good record, especially at home. People were talking about them being difficult to play against, hard to score against and hard to break down. But I thought we tore them apart at times and Wayne played a big part in that.' England have rediscovered their golden touch after failing miserably at the World Cup in South Africa. Gerrard was part of the side that flopped in the summer but he believes they are now starting to make amends with their form in Group G. VIDEO: Gerrard on England's win.He added: 'I think all the players realised that over in South Africa it wasn't good enough so we needed to re-group. 'We need to stick together and try and raise the performance levels. I think over the last two games we have certainly done that. 'I just think we've re-grouped. Everyone was hurt and disappointed by letting the nation down over in South Africa. 'We know we have to put it right but it's important not to get carried away by these two results. It's going to be a long time and a long process before we're really back.' A true pro! Swiss roll for Fabio Capello as Wayne Rooney thinks of England at lastSwitzerland 1 England 3: Wayne Rooney is up to his old tricks as Fabio Capello's men claim fine victoryMartin Samuel: From kiss and tell to all is well (until he gets home, anyway)England watch with Martin Keown: Mr Calm, and Mr Must-Be-More Calm