WAYNE ROONEY HAS vowed to control his temperament when he makes a long-awaited return from suspension for England’s tense Group D finale against Ukraine on Tuesday.
The Manchester United striker has been forced to sit out England’s opening two matches of Euro 2012, following his red card moment of madness in qualifying against Montenegro last October.
That inexplicable sending off in Podgorica was the latest flashpoint of Rooney’s England career, which also saw him red-carded in the quarter-final defeat to Portugal at the 2006 World Cup.
Rooney is confident, however, there will be no chance of the red mist descending once more as England prepare for a tense encounter against Ukraine in Donetsk where the tournament co-hosts will be fighting for their survival.
“What happened was a mistake; I understood that and apologised to the guy,” Rooney told reporters Sunday when asked about his dismissal against Montenegro.
“I’ve paid the price and had to take it. But I’ve no doubts about my attitude and my temperament. I’m happy and I’m ready to play.”
The 26-year-old is also unfazed by the prospect of playing in what is certain to be a bearpit atmosphere at the Donbass Arena.
“We’ve played a lot of teams in a lot of stadiums around the world and Europe and we’ve had to deal with that kind of atmosphere,” Rooney said, citing England’s 0-0 draw with Turkey in October 2003 that booked their place at the Euro 2004 finals.
“I think if you look at Turkey away nine or 10 years ago. We understand it’s going to be a big atmosphere and it’s going to be something we’ll have to deal with,” he added.
Rooney also ruled out any chance of England playing for a draw despite the fact that a point would be enough to secure their passage to the last eight.
“The same as the first two games, we’ll go into the game wanting to win and wanting the three points,” he said.
“If we have to take a point then we’ll happily do that, but we’re going into the game trying to get the three points.”
Rooney meanwhile spoke of his joy at being back on England duty at a major tournament and is looking forward to returning to the side.
“Obviously I’m delighted to be back part of the team and the squad and to be involved again,” Rooney said.
“The lads have done great to put us in the position we are in now and hopefully I’ll get a chance to play and try and shine and help us get through the group.”
He also played down any lingering concerns about his fitness despite not having played since the end of the Premier League in mid-May.
“Since I’ve joined up with the squad I’ve (taken) part in every training session. I’m feeling good, I’m just feeling ready and excited to get out onto the pitch,” he said.