ROONEY DESPERATE

Despite the potential for triggering a 'club v country' row, Rooney is apparently champing at the bit to make even a substitutes' appearance in Nuremberg.

Ferdinand also heard the Rooney chants and told reporters: "He was desperate to get on the pitch, it's the exuberance of being a young chap.

"If you ask any of the subs they would have been desperate to come on. The fans know. They love Wazza and he's a great player."

Ferdinand also reported that Rooney had looked good in training, much of which has been carried out behind closed doors at their Buhlertal base.

England's final group game, when Rooney might also come on from the bench if deemed match fit, is on June 20 against Sweden.

Eriksson's men lead the group with three points with Sweden and Trinidad & Tobago on one each after drawing 0-0 on Saturday.