Debate rages around striker after anothermediocre Cup showing

England manager Roy Hodgson defended Wayne Rooney after the Manchester United striker was unable to prevent his team from losing 2-1 to Italy in its opening World Cup match.

Rooney began Saturday's game in Manaus on the left flank to accommodate Raheem Sterling, and although he teed up Daniel Sturridge for England's equalizer, he occasionally left leftback Leighton Baines exposed.