Is Rooney's temper a World Cup worry?

It is perhaps typical of the English press that they managed to grab sensationalist back page headlines from what was a largely uneventful FIFA World cup 2010 warm up match.

The game between the Three Lions and South African side Platinum Stars was never going to be a thriller, it was clearly a simple run out aimed at ensuring the squad got another 90 minutes of fairly competitive football under their belts before the big kick off.

However, the game still managed to stir up some controversy after Wayne Rooney was booked for swearing at the referee and the official even suggested that had the incident occurred in a World Cup match then Rooney would have been given his marching orders.

So are the press right to whip themselves up into a frenzy about Rooney's inability to control his temper? Well, yes and no. It's true that the Manchester United man does flare up from time to time but his antics are mild compared to some others. Look at what Didier Drogba gets up to when things don't go his way.

However, it's equally true to say that if he doesn't keep a lid on things in South Africa, it could all backfire in a spectacular manner just as it did against Portugal in the last World Cup. Those betting on england 2010 world cup wise, will want Rooney to remain calm, that’s for sure.

Rooney is an aggressive, hardworking player and there can be little doubt that his success on the pitch his linked to his fiery passion. Despite this, Rooney must understand that if he is unable to curb his temper during tough matches then it will inevitably detract from his performances.

The USA have already revealed they will be looking to wind up the striker in their opening group game and if Rooney does bite and get sent off, the Three Lions could have to cope without their star man for the remaining two fixtures.
Let's hope Fabio Capello can get the striker to turn the other cheek.