The England striker is in fine form ahead of Saturday's World Cup clash with Kazakhstan.

Rooney has scored in his last three games for Manchester United, in addition to the goal he got in the Three Lions' staggering 4-1 win over Croatia in Zagreb.

His hot streak has overshadowed a sluggish start to the campaign, which saw him left out of Sir Alex Ferguson's side against Bolton.

Ironically, that move proved to be the trigger for Rooney's return to top form as the 22-year-old knew he was not performing at the level he wanted, with Ferguson and Fabio Capello confirming he spent too much time tackling back.

"Maybe sometimes the criticism has been fair," he said.

"I am self critical and watch all the games again. When I have not played well, I am disappointed and look for things to try and improve.
"As a centre-forward you do not want to be going too deep.

"But I also think it is natural to go looking for the ball if you are not getting it.

"Hopefully I can get on the ball in dangerous positions so I can stay upfield."

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