Wayne's world
Monday, 20 November, 2006
After a brace against Sheffield United, Wayne Rooney is TheFA.com's England Player of the Weekend.
Wayne Rooney continued his rich vein of form to almost single-handedly defeat Sheffield United - a performance which earned him TheFA.com's England Player of the Weekend.
Fresh from his deft back-heel in the Amsterdam ArenA, Rooney netted twice as his side came from a goal down to win 2-1 at Bramall Lane.
After former Red Keith Gillespie had headed the hosts ahead in spectacular fashion, Rooney hauled Sir Alex Ferguson's men level on the half-hour when he controlled Gary Neville's cross before dispatching past Paddy Kenny.
The England forward broke Sheffield United hearts with just 15 minutes remaining, cracking home a low drive following good work by Patrice Evra.
Ferguson was full of praise for his match-winner, who ensured United maintained their place at the summit of the Premier League.
"They were two marvellous finishes from Rooney," said the United boss. "The first came from a run across the defender. He has caught him on the hop, off-guard, and it was a great strike.
"The second was terrific. Taking that kind of finish, when you are under pressure and you need to win, it makes it more special."
A number of England players enjoyed a successful return to club action following The Three Lions' 1-1 draw in Holland.
Micah Richards, England's newest star, gave another eye-catching performance during Manchester City's 3-1 win over Fulham.
Attacking with the same verve as he showed during his outstanding debut, Richards almost set up Bernardo Corradi before hitting the side-netting himself with a later effort.
Fellow Lion Jermain Defoe, an unused substitute midweek, converted a penalty in Spurs' 1-1 draw with Blackburn on Sunday.