Gerrard backs Rooney to shine for England

Steven Gerrard is adamant this evening's Battle of Britain clash at Wembley is just what Wayne Rooney needs.

Rooney is expected to start for England against Scotland after recovering from the hamstring and thigh problems that prevented him playing any competitive fixtures during Manchester United's pre-season campaign.

Yet, rather than be distracted by the continuing uncertainty over his future, with United adamant they will not sell despite Chelsea's interest and Rooney's wish to leave, Gerrard is convinced Rooney will flourish in the environment he knows best.

"This game is great for Wayne," said Gerrard.

"There is a lot of media attention on him at the moment because of his club situation but he has got the chance to get some much-needed minutes under his belt and to play for England.

"That will be a release for him."

Gerrard recalled his own situation, and other points in his life when he has found himself in tough off-field situations, and claimed the football pitch is akin to an oasis in the desert.

"The best thing when there is a pressure on you is to be out on the pitch because it all gets parked up and is a welcome release," he said.

"I've been in the situation where I've had issues going on off the pitch. You just want to play.

"When the game starts it is fine. You are not thinking about what is going on in your personal life. You are just thinking about the opposition and doing as well as you can."

Nevertheless, the pair have spoken "as mates", but Gerrard insists it has been purely to gauge Rooney's general mood readiness for tonight's game.

Gerrard sees no problems on that score.

And neither does he feel it is his place to stick his nose into what is going on at Old Trafford.

"The situation with his club is basically none of my business, so I don't think I have to," said Gerrard.

"Wayne is experienced enough now.

"I know he is looking forward to this game. He has trained well and has been scoring regularly in training.

"He has been frustrated to miss big chunks of pre-season. Now he wants to get some minutes under his belt and get match fit as soon as possible."