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Capello: I need Rooney for Euro 2012

Comment: 0 October 20th, 2011 by: admin

England coach Fabio Capello has hinted that he will be taking Wayne Rooney to the Euro 2012 competition despite the standing ban handed out by UEFA.

Aas it stands, Rooney’s three- match suspension for his red card in the qualifier against Montenegro this month means that he will miss all of England’s upcoming group stage matches in Poland and Ukraine.

The Football Association is yet to decide whether or not to appeal the sanction.

Although the England coach has reportedly not spoken to Rooney since the ban was handed out, Capello recently expressed intention to see the Manchester United striker in his lineup.

Speaking about his intention to bring in young, active players in to the competition, Capello insisted that doing so would require the guidance of experienced talent.

‘There are not many young players better in the world than English players.  They are ready to play with the seniors, and the experience of the seniors is really important,’ said Capello.  ‘During the games we need some leaders, people that know something.’

He continued to say that bringing in seasoned players will help further boost the potential of a team with threatening young players already in its arsenal.

‘Jack Wilshere is incredible because he is so young.  We also need the experience of John Terry, Rio Ferdinand and Scott Parker.

‘You need this kind of player, plus Wayne Rooney, I hope.’

Mirror Football reported that despite the ban and even if UEFA upholds their decision after the FA submits an appeal, Capello is in fact still planning on putting Rooney with the squad, if he is fit enough.

The coach has also reportedly convinced the FA to go ahead with the appeal and request that the ban be reduced.

Rooney is considered a potentially essential addition to the English team, and without him the team might find themselves in danger and with added pressure to compensate for the missing piece.

Capello however recently expressed his confidence in the squad, and noted that along with the proper training they will also need the right amount of rest.

‘It’s really important the players relax after the season because the season here in England is really strong,’ he said.

‘This year will be stronger than last because there will be a competition between five or six teams to qualify for the Champions League.’

The coach is convinced that the strength of the English squad will also depend on whether or not they take the field refreshed and not overtired.

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