England coach Fabio Capello has confirmed Wayne Rooney will play in Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifier against Switzerland despite recent allegations about the striker's private life.
Rooney was one of England's best performers in their 4-0 victory over Bulgaria on Friday night, however, his place in the team in Basle had come under question after lurid claims in two Sunday newspapers. The Manchester United striker travelled with the team to Switzerland, however, and Capello said he was confident the player was in the right state of mind to take his place on Tuesday night.
"Yes he will play. During training he was really good and I spoke with him and he's happy to play," Capello said. "I know the players when they want to play - that is really important."
He added: "Against Bulgaria he was really, really good on the pitch.
"He will also be in a good situation. I hope the performance of Rooney will be the same as at Wembley.
"We are focused on the game, not about the private life of the players. We are here to play this game and train very well."
Skipper Steven Gerrard said he expected Rooney to put the off-field matter to one side as England look to begin their qualification campaign with back-to-back wins.
"Yeah he's got an issue off the pitch put I don't think that will stop him from playing well," the midfielder said.
"I spoke with him (Monday) lunchtime and in training and Wayne's been fine. He's looking forward to the game and playing well.
"I think football can do that sometimes (help you focus) if you've got an issue off the field. Once the game starts Wayne will be focused on the field and getting the three points."