Steven Gerrard defends England teammate Wayne Rooney after Paul Scholes criticism

Steven Gerrard has belief in his international teammate Wayne Rooney

Steven Gerrard has defended Wayne Rooney ahead of the World Cup, insisting that he is in the prime of his life and in the best frame of mind to lead England into a successful tournament.

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes had claimed that Rooney was past his peak and should not be considered a guaranteed starter for England at the summer showpiece in Brazil, though he was of the opinion that Roy Hodgson would not be ‘brave’ enough to do so.

Gerrard disagrees with Scholes however, claiming that Rooney has in fact been the best player for Manchester United this season and fully deserves to be the leading man for England this summer.

Gerrard told reporters, “Paul Scholes is wrong.

“Wayne’s been Manchester United’s best player at home and in Europe. He’s been in terrific form. What I’ve seen from his performances in the United team, his form has been really positive.

“He’s in a better frame of mind going in to this tournament than he’s had going into a previous tournament, when he’s had injuries.”

Rooney is expected to start for England in their opening group game, as they take on Italy in Manaus on June 14th.