• World Cup

Gerrard backing Rooney to handle pressure

England captain Steven Gerrard is convinced Wayne Rooney will rise above any underhand tactics by opposition teams at the World Cup finals.

Rooney was booked in a warm-up game on Monday and was warned by the referee that a similar display of petulance in the tournament proper would result in him being punished. It has been claimed that opposition teams, USA among them, monitored Rooney's actions with interest and are preparing to single him out for treatment.

Gerrard is aware of the focus that is on Rooney, but is confident he will be able to come through any tests with flying colours.

"I am not sure whether he will be targeted, we will have to wait and see," Gerrard said at a press conference on Thursday. "I think Wayne is experienced enough now to deal with it if he is. Wayne understands we need him on the pitch."

Gerrard confirmed that England's players have been told to show the officials the utmost respect.

"Every player has been warned by the manager and the coaching staff about how important it is to channel your frustrations in the right way and not be getting involved with referees and making silly challenges because we have experienced losing men at big times," Gerrard said.

"The things is not to swear at them. In this day and age it is important to show referees respect. If you use bad language towards them you are going to be booked and the team suffers. Everyone has to be on their guard and not slip into it."

Gerrard inherited the captaincy after Rio Ferdinand picked up a knee injury and the Liverpool man admitted he went through a range of emotions when learning Ferdinand would not be fit to play.

He said: "When I first heard about Rio and that I would be captain, the emotions were mixed. Rio is a fantastic player and massive one for us. I am deeply disappointed he is not available but now it is my responsibility to lead the boys out and I am very excited and looking forward to it."

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