Neville: Rooney Nearly A Great

Manchester United defender Gary Neville believes team-mate Wayne Rooney is one England medal away from being an all-time great.

The United striker netted another goal in Sunday's Carling Cup victory at Wembley - taking his astonishing tally for the season to 28.

Rooney may have to sit out of England's friendly with Egypt on Wednesday night after suffering a minor knee injury - but he is undoubtedly a key part of Fabio Capello's World Cup plans.

Neville has watched the former Everton star develop into a world-class striker over his career - and he believes an England triumph in the summer would be the perfect follow-up to an extraordinary season.

"Wayne is a great player to play with and is one of the brilliant Manchester United players have had," said Neville.

"He has been brilliant for England too. The only thing he has to do for England now is go and win something. That is what England players have been striving to do for the past 40 years.
"That would really crown it off for him."

Neville believes his team-mate has become indispensible to both his club and his country - but he is no doubt that the striker can cope with the pressure.

"Wayne can handle all the comments and accolades, all the praise and criticism," said Neville.

"He has been around a long time now and he has the experience of a 30-year-old really even at such a young age because he came into the Premier League at 16.

"He has played in European Cups, FA Cups, World Cups and European championships. He has experienced the lot. He is maturing now.

"It is not just about his performance, it is about his determination and character and his willingness to always fight for the team.

"That is what makes him stand out. He is not just a player who wins you games he fights for everything as well.

"His temperament is brilliant. He is brilliant to watch.

"He has been great since the moment I laid eyes on him about six or seven years ago when we were with England."

Rooney: Stunning Season