German World Cup organiser Franz Beckenbauer has admitted Wayne Rooney’s absence from the World Cup would be a blow to the prestige of the tournament.
“Even though he is just 20 years of age, he is one of those players who cannot be replaced,” said Beckenbauer.
Roooney broke a metatarsal playing for Manchester United last weekend, and he is deemed unlikely to be fit for the finals which start on June 9.
“Hopefully Wayne Rooney will be fit in time,” added Beckenbauer.
“His absence would be a major loss, not just for England but also for the tournament which would be missing a big attraction,” he added.
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