RIO FELT NO PRESSURE

RIO FERDINAND knows all about the pressures of being a teenage superstar - there are NONE.

Manchester United's £29.1million centre-back was only a week past his 19th birthday when he made his England debut in a 2-0 victory over Cameroon in November 1997.

As a West Ham player he had already been hyped as the new Bobby Moore before he had even pulled on an international shirt.If that is not pressure then nothing is. Ferdinand took it all in his elegant stride.

All the focus is now on Everton's strike sensation Wayne Rooney, who will make his debut against Australia at Upton Park tomorrow night at the tender age of 17 and become England's youngest-ever cap.

But Ferdinand, 24, insists it is a moment for the youngster to savour.

He said: "I don't think you feel pressure at his age.You don't think about the consequences of what may or may not happen, you just go out and enjoy it.

He seems to be doing that with his club. He has scored some quality goals and put in some great performances."

"If he fulfils his potential he's going to be some player for England.I'm sure Wayne will want to play every game but becoming a regular for your club or country takes time.There are no guarantees. You have to take your opportunities with both hands but deal with the down sides when they come along - and they will.There are good and bad times to have England games but you've got to be proud to play for your country.We've got the Champions League coming up and international football is similar to that, so this game could be a blessing in disguise for United."