Hodgson backs Rooney to fire

Although Hodgson insisted before England's EURO 2012 encounter with Ukraine that he was not troubled by Rooney's lack of match action, after his side's 1-0 win he admitted there was some concern.

Even Rooney admitted there was an element of rustiness about his performance, even though he headed the only goal from close range just after the break.

However, with a quarter-final against Italy looming in Kiev on Sunday (Monday morning AEST), Hodgson is certain Rooney will be better for his experience in Donetsk.

"He has looked terrific in training but there's always that little difference between training performances and doing it in an important match where there's big pressure from everybody," he said.

"I didn't have any doubts about his physical or mental fitness. He just needed a game.

"I would be lying if I said we weren't keeping a close eye on him and wondering how many minutes he had in him.

"But it was terrific he lasted so long and we are all pleased to see him back.

"The important thing was he performed really well for the team.

"He didn't need to be Wayne Rooney, but you do [need him], perhaps alongside Danny Welbeck, to give that type of performance.

"They both worked so hard to make sure we got the defensive organisation that we wanted."

Rooney's 29th England goal might have been predicted.

France's defeat to Sweden was much more of a surprise as it confirmed England as Group D winners.

It gives Hodgson's side an extra day at its Krakow base, where it will also complete its final training session before flying into Kiev for a final walk round, as it did in Donetsk.

Hodgson will be thankful for the space, which will be filled with homework, as the England boss admits his knowledge of the Italians is not quite what he would want it to be.

"Our preparation for Italy started on Wednesday," he said.

"I watched the game between Spain and Croatia rather than Italy and Ireland [on Monday] partly thinking that if we were to do well, Spain would be a possible opponent.

"I have seen Italy play but I haven't studied them and how good they are.

"But they have been good enough to get out of a very tough group."