[Joe]

Wayne Rooney will find himself on the substitutes bench for England’s opening World Cup match against Paraguay.

Tournament rules state that the 12 players who do not start each game can be on the substitutes bench but only three can be used during the match.

While being ruled out of the Paraguay game, reports claim that the Manchester United star will play some part in the rest of the group stage.

Manchester United have threatened legal action if Rooney plays and aggravates his injury further. However, Eriksson remains bullish regarding playing Rooney, saying: “ The good news is that Rooney has no more injury. He is injury-free. Now it’s up to us to get him match-fit and, when we think he is match fit, I am prepared to take in any specialist Manchester United want.

“ I am prepared to listen to everyone and discuss it with them but the last say on this story is Rooney’s and mine.”

If the risk backfires, Eriksson could find himself subject to Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary hairdryer treatment.

[Legend]

He won't get a game against Paraguay.

Just Fergie trying to hurt England's chances by keeping him out.

[Stiles]

Yeah he wont play, just the English media catching onto a small thread by seeing he will be on the bench. Im pleasantly surprised at how quick he has recovered.