Rooney returns to England action for the first time in seven months in Saturday’s Euro 2008 qualifier against Estonia with his disappointing international displays a source of concern. The Manchester United striker hasn’t scored in a meaningful England match for over three years and he conceded this week that his performances for his country in the last two years have been a let-down.

Rooney deserves credit for his candour and McClaren was also surprisingly honest in his assessment of arguably the most gifted player in his squad. “To see Wayne expressing disappointment in his performance is refreshing and we should see more of that,” McClaren said.

“From my personal point of view Wayne has the potential to be a world-class player. He still has a long way to go and a lot to learn.

“He is a very important player for England and has proved that over the years. He knows what potential he’s got and he knows what he’s got to do to realise it.”

Rooney is mystified by his failure to reproduce the dynamic form he shows for United when he pulls on an England shirt. McClaren believes the 21-year-old has suffered because injuries and suspension have stopped him getting into a groove with England. “I would say Wayne has been a little unfortunate with England that he has missed squads with injury and when he has come in he has just been getting back into form. He hasn’t really had a consistent run with the England squad that you need. We haven’t had him on a regular basis. You need consistency in performance. He hasn’t had that and it’s really hampered him.”

Rooney’s troubles with England can hardly have helped his partnership with Michael Owen.

England’s premier forwards with be reunited against Estonia for the first time since last year’s World Cup, but their undoubted talents have rarely dovetailed well.

Steven Gerrard, England’s captain in the absence of the injured John Terry, remains convinced they can work together as well as Owen did with Emile Heskey in England’s last two matches.

“I don’t see why not,” Gerrard said. “I think it’s a great partnership. They are different. One runs behind and one comes short.

“For a midfielder that is perfect. Hopefully Wayne can perform to Emile’s level over the last two games.

“I’ve seen Wayne’s quotes over the last couple of days and I think he’s been a bit hard on himself.

“He’s suffered big injuries and hasn’t played for England for a while. We’ve been seeing with Manchester United that Wayne is getting back to his best.

“I’m confident he can come in, play well and hopefully get a goal as well.”

Seems to me, if he can get his headbutt down right ala Zidane, he’ll do just fine. Now that’s a world class player right there.