WAYNE'S WORLD CUP TRIP

Sven-Goran Eriksson is set to gamble on his fitness, according to press reports.

Rooney will need a medical miracle to recover in time even to make the knockout stages in Germany, and with a question mark remaining over Michael Owen, Eriksson's options are looking distinctly Crouch-shaped i.e. thin.

Eriksson said: "Wayne is a world class player and we will give him every chance to play in the World Cup. With such a huge talent you have to do that."

England doctor Leif Sward examined Rooney's injury before he returned for treatment at the Whalley Range BUPA Hospital.

The England squad will be named on May 8 and the final 23 must be submitted to FIFA on May 15. Players can then only be replaced if they suffer a new injury.