Rooney ready to return for England

England's Wayne Rooney leaves the team hotel in Krakow. Credit: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire

He's had to sit and watch from the stands for England's first two Euro 2012 group games but Wayne Rooney says he's ready to return to team for their final match with Ukraine. After a draw with France and a win against Sweden, Roy Hodgson's side need just a point against the co-hosts to book their place in the quarter finals.

Rooney told a packed press conference: "Obviously I'm delighted to be back part of the team and the squad and to be involved again. The lads have done great to put us in the position we are in now and hopefully I'll get a chance to play and try and shine and help us get through the group."

Rooney is back after serving a two match ban. The striker insists he is fit and ready to go despite not having had much competitive action recently.

He added: "Since I've joined up with the squad I've took part in every training session. I'm feeling good, I'm just feeling ready and excited to get out onto the pitch."

Fellow Manchester United forward Danny Welbeck and Liverpool's Andy Carroll both started and scored for England in their 3-2 win over Sweden. It's thought Carroll will make way for Rooney who admits it's good to have competition for places.

He said: "It's great that we have got forwards scoring goals. It's great for me as well, it's great competition. You know you need to be at your best to get in the team and stay in the team."

Asked if the England camp were happier and more relaxed in this tournament compared to the 2010 World Cup campaign under Fabio Capello, Rooney responded: "I'd say so. [With] All the coaching staff obviously I think it helps being English. There are no words lost in translation and we understand what the manager wants from us. The manager trusts his players which is a big help to the players."

The 26 year old went on: "Under the other manager there was an element of trust but with Roy he's come in and given us a lot of rest time and down time. We understand what he wants from us, what we have to do. I think it's good for the players to relax and to put football aside for even just one afternoon, it's good to give your mind a rest."