Wayne Rooney was discussing the topic of “sledging” ahead of England’s clash with Wales.
The game has a definite derby feel, with the majority of Wales’ squad plying their trade in England, and nine of the 23-man squad born in the neighbouring country, including captain Ashley Williams.
The fixture could well decide who finishes first in Group B, and will be the first time two teams from the UK played in a major tournament since 1996, when England beat Scotland 2-0 at Wembley.
Somehow, tensions have been raised even further ahead of the tie following some harmless, and arguably tedious, comments by Gareth Bale about Wales possessing more “passion.”
Rooney said in a press conference on Wednesday that he expects the talking to end when they take to the field in Lille, and isn’t worried about any “sledging” – verbal abuse by an opponent during a game in an attempt to gain a psychological advantage – from the Welsh players.
However, he revealed that Republic of Ireland and Stoke City forward Jon Walters is fond of the tactic, as well as former Wales striker Craig Bellamy.
“In all the games I’ve played over the years in the Premier League, there’s not been much, probably Craig Bellamy the only one. Jon Walters a bit. They are the only two who try to speak to players and try to intimidate players,” Rooney said.
“I can’t recall anyone else doing it. I’ve played against Ashley Williams many times, and many of the Welsh players many times, and never had it in the Premier League, so I doubt it will happen.”
