Gerrard hails 'terrific' Rooney after win

The Manchester United forward opened the scoring in Basle, converting Glen Johnson's cross to register his first goal in open play for club or country since March, and later departed to a standing ovation from the travelling support.  England's 3-1 win had appeared to come at a cost, though Fabio Capello moved to allay initial fears over ankle injuries sustained by Theo Walcott and Jermain Defoe. Both should be playing again within a fortnight.

It was Rooney's display, in the wake of allegations over his private life, that caught the eye. "Wayne was terrific, like he was against Bulgaria last Friday," said Gerrard. "I'm sure he'll be great for us throughout the qualification campaign. It was great for Wayne to score. All the talk beforehand had been about him so to get the goal early will have helped his performance."