Rooney backing for England

Wayne Rooney has backed England to keep their European Championship dream alive before he returns from suspension in Poland and Ukraine.

Rooney's two-match ban may cost his country dearly this summer, as they could be eliminated while he sits out their opening two Group D games against France and Sweden.

But England's talisman, who came off the bench in Saturday's final warm-up friendly against Belgium, was sure that would not prove the case.

"I'm confident we're capable of beating France and Sweden," he said after the 1-0 win at Wembley.

"We've certainly got the squad of players.

"You need some luck in those games but we're confident - you've got to be confident.

"If you are not then there's no point turning up."

Of course, if England do win their first two group games, Rooney may struggle to get back into the side for their third match against Ukraine.

The 26-year-old added: "I hope I can work hard and keep on showing the manager what he wants to see. So, hopefully, I can get back in the team."

Rooney was pleased with his 37-minute cameo today having turned down the opportunity for an even longer rest before the start of Euro 2012.

He said: "It was a good run out, a bit longer than I expected. It was nice to get back on the pitch to play.

"It's important to rest after a long season - it's nice to get that break.

"He (Hodgson) did offer me another week off, basically, but I didn't think it would be fair for me to join up with the team and meet them just as we're flying out to Poland.

"I want to be part of the squad."

Manchester United team-mate Danny Welbeck is expected to lead the line in Rooney's absence after scoring his maiden senior England goal today.

Rooney said: "Danny has done very well. And (Alex Oxlade-) Chamberlain came in and I thought he was brilliant for us tonight.

"We've got the players to get the results in those first few games."

He added of Welbeck: "I think his loan spell at Sunderland certainly helped.

"He came back bigger and stronger and he started a lot of games for United this season and did really well.

"It's great to see him in the squad and great to see him get his first goal tonight."