Rooney advises England to keep Harry Kane
After starting with an impressive 6-2 victory over Iran, England drew the US 0-0 in a match that only launched eight shots - fewer than the opponent (10). However, they still have the bright door to continue with the advantage of leading Group B with four points, one and two points ahead of Iran and the US, respectively. The "Three Lions" just need to draw Wales today to be sure of the 1/8 round. But to be sure of the lead, they must win all three points.
According to Rooney, due to holding the ticket to continue, coach Southgate should rotate the squad before Wales. The 37-year-old former striker thinks today's match at Ahmed bin Ali is the perfect opportunity for Southgate to give the opportunity to under-used players, including Callum Wilson.
"If it were me, I'd let Kane rest," Rooney wrote in the Times. "Against the United States, Kane still seems to be in pain after the strong impact in the Iran game. Kane is England's most important player, and Southgate should take advantage of the opportunity to keep him strong."
Kane injured his ankle in the match against Iran, but still played the whole match against the US. This match, the 29-year-old striker touched the ball 40 times, passed with 68% accuracy and completed two missed shots. He has yet to score at the 2022 World Cup. Before the tournament, Tottenham coach Antonio Conte once said that Kane was exhausted from constantly playing from the beginning of the season.
Like former players Ian Wright or Gary Neville, Rooney wants Phil Foden to start on the left wing, while Bukayo Saka competes with Raheem Sterling on the opposite side. "I know Mount played very well against Iran, and brought great energy and speed. But sometimes England need subtle players to influence the game," Rooney analyzed the reason he proposed. push Mount to the bench.
The former Man Utd striker admitted that the performance against the US was disappointing, but still considered England a strong candidate for the 2022 World Cup. bad," Rooney continued. "I think England need a little luck, besides individual performances. But I believe England still have a good chance to win the Gold Cup in Qatar."
