Roy Hodgson must not drop Wayne Rooney. The England Coach must start Wayne Rooney against Italy in their 2014 FIFA World Cup opener on Saturday, regardless of the questions over his form. The Manchester United striker has been subject to criticism, notably from former teammate and midfielder Paul Scholes, who believes Rooney may be past his peak.
However, Michael Owen said Rooney is untouchable and he would rather drop Daniel Sturridge, even though the Liverpool striker scored 21 goals in the Premier League last season.
Owen said in a blog on sports social network Sportlobster.com: “Dropping Rooney for the opening match isn’t an option.
“Therefore, I considered sacrificing Sturridge to include the width and pace of Raheem Sterling and Adam Lallana.
“However, Sturridge’s goal against Peru and his current confidence has tipped the balance in his favour.
“Whoever Roy Hodgson selects for his opening match of the 2014 World Cup, I just hope they continue to play as they have for their clubs.”
Owen, who netted 40 goals for the Three Lions, boldly announced himself on the international stage as an 18-year-old against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup.
The former Liverpool, Newcastle United and Manchester United marksman said wonderkids such as Ross Barkley and Sterling could take a similar route.
Owen said: “The biggest advantage for England is the fearlessness and innocence of youth, as well as lightning pace throughout the team and the huge potential of so many of their youngsters.
Paul M. Banks owns The Sports Bank.net, an affiliate of Fox Sports. He’s also a frequent guest on talk shows across the world. Banks has been featured in hundreds of media outlets including NFL.com, Forbes, Bleacher Report, Deadspin, ESPN, Washington Times, NBC and the History Channel. President Barack Obama follows him on Twitter (@paulmbanks)