England Goalkeeper David James Tips Wayne Rooney To Become 'True Superstar' At 2010 World Cup

EXCLUSIVE

England goalkeeper David James thinks that the 2010 World Cup will be the stage for Wayne Rooney to cement his status as one of the finest players on the planet. 

The Portsmouth stopper told Goal.com UK that the Manchester United striker can prove he deserves to be named amongst the best players ever to have kicked a ball at this summer's tournament.

James, 39, said: “In a World Cup that will see so many true world stars playing, Wayne Rooney could really become a true superstar and legend on the world stage.

"I think this World Cup has even more magnitude behind it than normal and it’s an opportunity for Wayne to become a household legend.” 

James, who is hoping to be one of the three goalkeepers on the plane to South Africa this summer, is expected to start for England in tomorrow's friendly against Egypt.

He praised two younger England squad members - Aston Villa's James Milner and fellow goalkeeper Joe Hart. 

“I’m a big fan of Joe, he has a really big future ahead of him. He’s doing very well at Birmingham and although Shay Given’s number one at Man City, age is on his side.

"He’s definitely the one who will come and take the jersey in the future. I’ve also been impressed with James Milner this season, his work ethic and ability are very impressive and he deserves his shot at the squad.” 

When asked which goalkeepers he felt would be crucial to their countries' chances in South Africa, James was quick to name Juventus shot-stopper Gianluigi Buffon of Italy.

“Gigi Buffon’s has been my favourite keeper for many years. Not just for his shot saving but his charisma too, it draws me towards him.

"I have to say Hugo Lloris (of France) has looked very capable too, and was very good against Ireland in the play-offs."

Of England’s potential stumbling blocks in South Africa, James says that Brazil and Spain could be the teams to beat. 

He added “Spain are the only opposition we’ve played that has beaten us by more than one goal (the 2-0 defeat back in February last year). That night they were solid, and their passing and movement was top drawer, so they and Brazil will be the teams to beat.

"But we have demonstrated in qualifying the quality we've got. We played very well against a lot of good teams and that has given us great confidence, there’s not a team we are particularly scared of. It’s a World Cup tournament so things can happen that are beyond the elements, so hopefully we get a bit of luck along the way as well.”