England 1966 World Cup winner Roger Hunt admits the Three Lions badly need Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney on board when they go to South Africa in the summer.
The former Liverpool striker, also in attendance at the pools event, believes Rooney is getting better by the day.
Hunt said: "Rooney has improved this season, especially his heading ability. He is also getting into the danger areas, rather than chasing back and wasting his energy.
"It is so important for Rooney to be playing for England. There are other players who can come in of course but Rooney has become the talisman. With him in the team England will have more of a chance."