Rooney eyes World Cup triumph

12 March 2010-AAP

Look but don't touch ... England's golden hope for this year's World Cup, Wayne Rooney (Getty)

Wayne Rooney came up close to the World Cup trophy in a photo shoot this week and, with 30 goals already this season, hopes he can get his hands on it for real in July.

The Manchester United striker was under orders not to handle the trophy, which was in central London as part of a worldwide tour.

England's hopes of winning the World Cup for the first time since 1966 weigh heavily on Rooney's shoulders and his form for United this season, including his two goals in the Red Devils' 4-0 victory over AC Milan in the Champions League, has strengthened the belief that the long wait could soon be over.

"I think I've had pressure since I started playing for Everton at (age) 15 and with England at 17," he said. "I've managed to deal with that pressure and find a way I feel comfortable to deal with it. It doesn't really affect my game."

Rooney says he is trying to concentrate on club competitions rather than the distant World Cup in South Africa starting on June 11.

"You try not to think too much about the World Cup, but it's always on your mind," he said. "You have to worry about your club first, but it's a great honor to play for your country."

United is top of the Premier League going into this weekend's games and its victory over Milan put the team into the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

"It was a great performance. AC Milan is one of the great teams, so to beat them 4-0 is a great result," Rooney said.

Asked how he attributed his newfound scoring prowess, which includes 15 in his last 12 games, he replied: "I've been in the box a lot more. I've worked on my timing and I've played up front all season."