Following the narrow 1-0 win over Slovenia that sent England through to the knock-out stages, Fabio Capello moved quickly to express his confidence that an out-of-sorts Wayne Rooney will be fit in time for Sunday’s match.

 

The Manchester United striker was substituted with 20 minutes to go after apparently picking up an ankle injury on the heavy pitch. However, Capello said “I have to wait for the doctor but I think it will be okay”.

Capello also praised former captain John Terry for his performance against Slovenia. “He is a leader” said the Italian, “It was a very important performance from Terry,” The manager was clearly delighted with the result and came onto the field following the final whistle to congratulate his players. “All the players played really well. We have found the spirit, the quality of the play was really good.”

England’s next opponents will be the old enemy Germany whose 1-0 win over Ghana gave them top spot in Group D. However, Capello was unconcerned about whomever England played. “You have to beat all the teams. The name is not important.”