England v Wales: Wayne Rooney has urged England manager Gareth Southgate to rest Harry Kane for their FIFA World Cup Group B match against Wales.
England kicked off their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign by defeating Iran 6-2 in their opener. However, the Three Lions turned in a rather disappointing performance in their next game, as they and the US shared points after a scoreless draw.
England have yet to seal their place in the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup, but they are expected to do so. If the Three Lions avoid a 4-0 defeat in the England vs Wales game, they will qualify for the round of 16.
Writing in his column in the Times, Wayne Rooney urged Southgate to rest Harry Kane for the England vs Wales match at the FIFA World Cup.
Read more: England vs USA: Why didn’t Gareth Southgate bring Phil Foden in for the FIFA World Cup match?
England vs Wales: Wayne Rooney hopes to see Kane against him in the FIFA World Cup game vs Wales
Wayne Rooney thinks Southgate should have considered removing Harry Kane at half time in their 6-2 win over Iran. England led the game 3-0 at half time against Iran.
Wayne Rooney also suggested that Harry Kane might have been taking a hit, which he received in the second half of the game against Iran, against the USA.
Wayne Rooney also urged Southgate to protect Harry Kane and help him stay in shape when there are opportunities. “The other big change he would make for the Wales game would be resting Harry Kane,” Rooney wrote.
“Against the United States, it looked like he might have been suffering the effects of a heavy blow he took in the Iran game. He went for a tackle in the second half and in that game, I felt that Gareth should have considered taking him out at half time.
“England were leading 3-0, the game was already won and Harry is our most important player. When there are opportunities to protect him and help him stay fit, I think Gareth should take them, and that’s why he would keep Harry on the bench against Wales.”
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Meanwhile, England sits top of Group B at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with four points from two games. Second in Group B is Iran, with three points.
The United States, with two points, sit third in the group, while Wales, with one point, languishes in fourth.
