• England

I've got my temper under control, says Rooney

Manchester United and England captain Wayne Rooney says he has matured as a player but never felt the need to get treatment for his fiery temperament.

Rooney faced criticism over the reckless manner in which he got sent off during United's recent victory against West Ham at Old Trafford.

The striker issued a partial apology for the challenge but insisted he is a different character now compared with his younger days when he had a reputation for a volatile temper.

"I've grown up in the last couple of years," Rooney said. "I've made errors in the past. I haven't gone for any treatment. I didn't feel it was that bad that I had to.

"It's a natural progression with age. I came into the football world as a young lad, and you're going to make mistakes. The older you get, the wiser you get and you do mature. I feel in a comfortable position now."

Rooney reiterated that his challenge on Downing was not malicious: "It wasn't the same as red cards I've got in the past for lashing out. I tried to stop a counter-attack and misjudged it. I didn't try and hurt him."

Rooney's rise to England captain is an indication of how the 28-year-old's personality has developed with manager Roy Hodgson quick to point out the forward's inspirational qualities, despite his "Liverpool accent."

And Rooney, who angered the nation's fans when he criticised them for booing after the World Cup draw against Algeria in 2010, is keen to show his positive approach.

He said: "I'm always delighted to be called up to the England squad and it's a huge honour to play for my country, whether it's against Brazil or San Marino. I want to play every game."

Rooney showed the same willingness in England's opening Euro 2016 qualifying victory against Switzerland, where his commanding performance helped give Hodgson's side the perfect start.

Ten qualifying games remain, starting with San Marino at Wembley on Thursday, and Hodgson does not want his player's commitment to falter.

"There are 10 qualifying matches,"' Hodgson said. "In the last 10, we won six and drew four. It would be nice to go through this qualifying campaign unbeaten. If we get two good results, we'll set ourselves the target of winning all the games.

"We're keen to keep the momentum going. It's important we're taking it seriously. Everyone is anxious to play. The players deserve further confidence. We've got to weigh the two things: keeping the team together but also using one of these games as a chance to see someone else play."

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