Matt Reeder: Late arrival Rooney could turn this tournament into his party

Forced to sit and wait for his chance to shine at Euro 2012, the Manchester United striker returns from suspension this evening desperate to make up for lost time.

Forced to kick his heels on the sidelines, Rooney has been an impatient spectator – kicking every ball and rising for every header from his seat.

We can expect an explosive, energetic and fully committed display from a man who, on his day, deserves to be mentioned alongside the true greats of English and European football.

This young lad, yes, he is only 26, has done everything at club level and is rightly seen as a legend already among the Stretford End regulars down the M62 at Old Trafford.

All he needs do now to truly cement such a status among the superstars of the game is succeed in a major tournament.

Platini guided France to glory in 1984, Maradona likewise with the Argentines two years later in Mexico. Both were great players whose skills and achievements have gone down in history.

Rooney is capable of joining them, of that I have no doubt, and if he can replicate their brilliance then, of course, it can only be good for England.

The fact that he once doubted whether he would even get the chance to play at these Championships offers an insight into just how desperate he will be to make an impact.

Great players thrive on such moments in their career and sadly, despite his great club form, Rooney’s moments under the international spotlight have either ended in injury, a red card or him shouting at TV cameras after being booed by supporters.

Rooney has often given the impression of being an angry young man. Someone who was constantly at odds with the watching world and, more importantly, the referees.

It can only be hoped that he has learned his lesson, and there is some evidence to suggest a change of heart.

Initially banned for the entire group stage following his straight red card for violent conduct against Montenegro in October, the suspension was reduced to two games on appeal.

He was quoted in the build-up to tonight’s game as saying: “What happened was a mistake and I’ve paid the price. I’m happy and ready to play. I’ve been looking forward to it and now I’m available to play I’m excited.”

Having endured his watching brief against France and Sweden, we can only assume that when Rooney does finally escape the shackles of suspension tonight that his performance befits that of a reprieved man.

Roy Hodgson’s team have been steady, if unspectacular in their opening exchanges but adding Rooney to the mix could prove to be explosive.

Rooney’s time has come... Let’s hope he takes his chance.