Rooney must cut short fuse

World Cup 2010: Rustenburg

High above Nelson Mandela Drive - the long road that stretches into and out of Rustenburg - the face of Wayne Rooney looks down from a giant hoarding accompanied by the slogan: "Once In A Lifetime."

Rooney is one of the symbols of the World Cup, earmarked even before the opening ceremony as a unique talent capable of making an indelible mark on the tournament.

If stars of Rooney's stature are important to the overall image of this South African showpiece, then this is nothing compared to how integral he is to England's chances of success.

And that is why Rooney's behaviour in England's unconvincing win against local side Platinum Stars will surely draw a short but sharp rebuke from Fabio Capello ahead of Saturday's opening game against the United States.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/philmcnulty/2010/06/rooneys_must_cut_out_short_fus.html