England went into their final group stage fixture against Ukraine after drawing with France and beating Sweden. They were already in a good position to qualify for the quarter-finals and with Rooney coming out of suspension and straight into the team, it got easier and the reliance began.
Having not played competitively for over a month, Rooney wasn’t expected to be as sharp as usual but he gradually improved as the game went on, scoring the only goal after 48 minutes. I’m sure having Rooney fit and fired up for the knockout stages can only mean good things for England even if he’s their scapegoat.
England’s victory put Hodgson’s men first place in Group D which means they will face Italy in the next round. England should beat Italy but you never know with that team. The only thing I am sure of is that a United player with be pointed furiously at when they crash out of the tournament. I mean, look at the abuse that was thrown at Beckham and Rooney in the past. Not to forget Ronaldo in 2006, who had a couple of twitches in his eye…
