Hodgson backs 'hero' Rooney to make 2014 World Cup 'crowning glory'

England national football team manager Roy Hodgson has backed England hero Wayne Rooney to make the 2014 Rio World Cup his 'crowning glory'.

Rooney has seen his last two World Cups end in heartbreak after being sent off in a quarter-final against Portugal which ended in penalty shoot-out defeat in 2006 and blasting England fans live on TV following their criticism over his lack of focus in 2010.

However, the Mirror reports that Hodgson believes that next year could be Rooney's time to use the game's biggest stage to confirm his status as a world-class talent as his performances recently have been 'crowning glories', adding that Rooney will be driven by a desire to play in the best shape he has ever been for a major tournament.

Stating that the team's recent successes have seen Rooney show decisive performances with his goals, Hodgson also said that Rooney has a high motivation whenever he gets the chance to play for England, adding that his starting well for Manchester United this season bodes well for the national team in the World Cup.