"The medical people say he can play more than 45 minutes, so if that is the case it is better he starts the game," Eriksson told British media on Monday.

The Manchester United striker played 33 minutes in England's 2-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago and looked in fine form.

Rooney was named in the English squad despite suffering a broken metatarsal but he fully recovered and became ready for the knock-out clashes.

England secured qualification to the round of 16 after winning their two games so far.

Holding midfielder Steven Gerrard is likely to be sidelined to have some rest and to avoid a second booking that could suspend him in England's first knock-out game.

BBC Sport reported that Owen Hargreaves as Gerrard's replacement in the midfield alongside Frank Lampard, who also has a yellow card in his record.

Liverpool captain Gerrard, who had a minor back injury one week before the World Cup kicks-off, scored the second goal against Trinidad.