Brazil legend Pele has revealed that Wayne Rooney would be one of the first players on the teamsheet if he were England manager.

The Manchester United striker has come in for much criticism following his performance in the Three Lions' defeat to Italy in their World Cup opener.

However, Pele is adamant that teams should not place too much responsibility on just one player in major tournaments.

Pele told Sky Sports News: "I have followed him for a long time and I like the way he plays.

"If I was a coach, he would be one of the players in my team, no doubt, because he plays with heart and spirit, but it is the same situation as we see in Brazil.

"You cannot put responsibility on one player in the World Cup. Brazil have put too much responsibility on Neymar in his first World Cup. I like Rooney."

Rooney has yet to score in a World Cup, despite playing in his third tournament.

Written by
Simon Sinclair