Rooney fighting fit ahead of World Cup clash

Manchester United man Rooney also rebuffed speculation over his fitness, claiming “I feel great. I feel 100% fit, ready for this tournament”. News which should buoy the Three Lions camp.

Despite an ultimately disappointing club campaign for the Red Devils under former boss David Moyes, Rooney was one of few players able to hold his head high due to his individual exploits, finishing as top scorer. He is 5/1 to net three or more tournament goals during England’s time in Brazil.

Insisting that “It’s not about me scoring or not scoring”, Rooney will enter the competition hoping to improve on an impressive record of 39 goals in 91 Three Lions caps.

With spotlights and pressure firmly focused on Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, the opportunity has arisen for the England forward to fly under the radar. Rooney has odds of 7/2 to recreate his stunning lob against West Ham this season and score from outside the box, as he closes in on Bobby Charlton’s international record.

As for concerns surrounding the state of the pitch, the former Everton star moved to dispel worries, stating: “At the end of the day the pitch is the same for ourselves and Italy and we will both have to deal with that.”

England talisman Rooney is used to deflecting criticism, with some media outlets questioning his contribution to the cause. He was keen to focus, however, on the pride he feels in pulling on the Three Lions shirt: “For me it is an honour to represent my country so many times. It is something I am proud to do and to be successful would be the icing on the cake.”

Fans will be hoping Rooney can spread his optimism around the squad, and act as the catalyst in a competition that could be memorable for all the right reasons. England are 25/1 to win the World Cup outright, and 50/1 to be highest scoring team, but first they will have to navigate their way past Andrea Pirlo’s Azzurri.