07 October 2004    
Wayne Rooney reaction - AUDIO


Rooney was handed a different role at Old Trafford, playing in the 'hole' behind strikers Michael Owen and Jermain Defoe.

It worked a treat, with England creating a host of chances and Rooney finding acres of space to work inbetween the Welsh midfield and defence.

In fact, he was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet, hitting the post once and also being denied by Welsh goalkeeper Paul Jones.

"It was good to have three of us up front and I think it worked well," said Rooney. "We have a lot of pace between us and I had loads of space to try and play other players in.

"I didn't score but we got the result we wanted and that's what matters.

"I think I played pretty good in there. I like playing that role and I had a lot of space. But all I want to do is play for my country and it's a great feeling to be in the team whatever the formation."

Rooney wasn't the only England player to play well at Old Trafford - there were very few negatives for Head Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson to worry about after a comfortable victory.

And the Manchester United striker believes the 2-0 result was well deserved.

He said: "We got off to a good start and we always had control of the game.

"I didn't think we ever looked like losing the game and I don't think Wales had too many chances, to be honest.

"I think we played well and we did the job that was required. We haven't played Wales for a long time and this is the win we wanted. We all worked well together and I think we're all pleased with the result.

"It's a good three good points and hopefully we can go on from here and qualify for the World Cup Finals."