Capello: Rooney is fit for World Cup

Capello: Rooney is fit for World Cup

Published May. 27, 2010 6:03 p.m. ET

England striker Wayne Rooney is fit enough for Fabio Capello's World Cup squad.

After knee, ankle and groin injuries over the last two months of the season, Rooney's problems were behind him, Capello told Sky Sports Italia on Thursday.

"Rooney is fine. He's not been scoring recently, but I'm pleased with what he's doing in training because he's at 100 per cent," Capello said.

"One player doesn't make a difference and even though Rooney lifts everyone, it is the team that wins," Capello said. "Above all when you play in a World Cup it is the team spirit that is the key."

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Following a near-perfect qualifying campaign, England has been installed among the favorites. But Capello knows from experience that pre-tournament predictions count for little. He was part of an aging and divided Italy squad at the 1974 World Cup that fell in the first round.

"We have to train well, want to win and be determined," Capello said. "It is enjoyable working with the players, they are very good technically and I am satisfied with the work he have done in this period."

England plays its last warmup game against Japan in Graz on Sunday, then plays the United States in its opening World Cup match in Rustenburg on June 12.
 

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