Ronaldo feels Rooney can win the World Cup for England

London, Feb.14 (ANI): Portuguese and Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who single-handedly angered the Brits with his infamous role in England striker Wayne Rooney's red card during their 2006 World Cup clash in Gelsenkirchen, has said that Fabio Capello's team and Rooney in particular can win the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

Cristiano Ronaldo leaned back in his chair in Real Madrid's state-of-the-art training complex and said: "Can England win the World Cup? Why not?

"They have excellent players and an excellent coach. England are very strong. They had a fantastic qualification and, if it is possible, I hope to see them in the final. If we play England in the final it will be because Portugal have played a great tournament," News of The World quoted Ronaldo, as saying.

"I think England are very strong but I am not thinking about the possibility of facing Rooney and Ferdinand now, I am just thinking about qualification from our group. But it would be very interesting if I see Rooney and Rio in the final," he added.

Ronaldo also admitted that he misses wearing the red shirt of Manchester United.

Rooney has become an even greater goal scorer in the Portuguese winger's absence, scoring 23 this season and reaching 100 Premier League goals.

Asked if United were missing him, Ronaldo said: "Some people say yes, some people say no.

"Whenever I have the opportunity I watch United and I think they are doing well - just a point behind leaders Chelsea.

"United have a winning mentality and a fantastic coach in Alex Ferguson.

On Rooney, he said: "He is a fantastic player but it's not because I left the club that he is doing well. He has always done well." (ANI)