Rooney: Fast counter attack key to England victory

Wayne Rooney believes England’s ability to counter attack quickly was key to their 2-0 victory over Switzerland.

Roy Hodgson’s side secured three points in their opening Euro 2016 qualifying fixture following Danny Welbeck’s second-half double.

“We played some great stuff today,” Rooney told ITV. “We defended well as a team which was important. We caught them well on the break with the speed we’ve been talking about. Danny got two great goals, I’m delighted for him.”

England were criticised for their display in Wednesday’s 1-0 friendly win over Norway at Wembley but Rooney admits his team-mates were always prioritising the match against Switzerland.

“I think we all knew the game of Wednesday night was going to be difficult coming off the back of a world cup. We got the victory, it wasn’t the best of performances, but tonight was more important, we was focusing more or this than Wednesday night,” said Rooney.

“We’ve put the work in. Worked on our defensive shape when we haven’t got the ball and then springing from defence to attack, which you saw with the two goals tonight.

“We’re pleased. The things we’ve worked on the training ground have paid off, so it’s a happy performance for us.”