England boss Fabio Capello has told striker Wayne Rooney if he does not rediscover his form, his place in the national side is under threat (England 8/1 to win 2012 European Championships).
The Manchester United star caused a storm last week by stating he was ready to call time on his Old Trafford career, but then had a change of heart and agreed a contract extension with United to keep him at the club until 2015 (Manchester United 9/2 to win the 2010-11 Premier League).
The 25-year-old’s private life has also dominated the front and back pages in recent weeks, but Capello claims the only thing that counts for him is the striker’s actions on the pitch. With just one league goal to his name this season, a penalty against West Ham, Capello has told Rooney he needs to find his form or risk losing his place in the England side.
“If he’s (in form) I’ll play him, otherwise no,” Capello told RAI. “For anything else, you’ve got to ask (Manchester United boss Sir Alex) Ferguson.”
Rooney has struggled for form since the end of last season and failed to deliver for England at the World Cup in South Africa during the summer.
Ferguson stated earlier in the campaign the striker was suffering with an ankle problem, which Rooney later denied, although he is now sidelined with an ankle injury which will see him miss Tuesday’s Carling Cup showdown with Wolves at Old Trafford.
Mexican striker Javier Hernandez is expected to be rested, after hitting a brace against Stoke on Sunday, and Ferguson could hand Michael Owen the chance to impress against Mick McCarthy’s men.
The United boss set to make plenty of changes to his starting XI in order to give his first choice players a rest ahead of a crucial Premier League showdown with Spurs on Saturday (Manchester United 2/7, Draw 4/1, Wolves 11/1 – Match Betting).
Rooney could possibly return to action on November 10 when United make the short trip across Manchester to face fierce rivals Manchester City at Eastlands, despite initial reports suggesting he could be out of action for over three weeks.
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