Rooney was the worst player at the World Cup

Paul Merson never understates a situation, unless of course, he cannot remember a player's name as so often seems to happen. As one of the most talented, and flawed, English footballers of the last 20 years, he would seem a good man to pass verdict on the most talented of the current crop: Wayne Rooney. The article is written in the Daily Star, and for supporters of Rooney, turn away now...

WAYNE Rooney was the worst player at the World Cup. It is painful to have to say it, but it is the truth. His performances in his four games were appalling. Wayne has probably never been as bad in four games since he was 10.

The reason he was the worst is because he sets himself such high standards. We talked about him, and his team-mates did, in terms reserved for Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.But on the world level he just let himself down. He looked so frustrated and angry that he could not play his normal game.

This is a striker who has led the line on his own all season with Manchester United, yet was shackled with England and forced to drop deep looking for any sort of service.

It was dreadful to watch, just like the first goal that we conceded against Germany. I predicted that the game would be end-to-end stuff, but that was just ridiculous. Any pub team would not let in a goal like that.

This might sound over the top, but it was the worst goal I have seen conceded in open play at a World Cup. I know Rob Green’s gaffe was bad, but I am talking about a proper goal that a team has created.

It was shocking truly shocking and should never have happened, but it’s all far too late.