Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer says Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney will thrive under the expectations of carrying England's World Cup hopes.
Shearer never seemed to have a problem and, having spoken to the prolific Manchester United man, he has no doubt Rooney will cope with ease.
"A hell of a lot is on his shoulders but he can carry the burden. When you have done it for the biggest club in the world for the past 12 months, England will not be a problem," said Shearer.
"In fact he is relishing it. The more pressure that is heaped on him, the more he enjoys his football."
Once the England captain, Shearer only got one shot at the tournament himself, in 1998, although he was part of the England side that reached the semi-finals of Euro 96. And having gone through that agony, he feels with Rooney to lean on, Fabio Capello's men can do even better.
"Rooney has been awesome. He has had a magnificent season," he said. "He is in the top three in the world without a doubt.
"After (Cristiano) Ronaldo left, Sir Alex Ferguson asked him to score more goals. He has come up with that.
"In previous years the accusation has been that Wayne is a magnificent team player but has done too much work.
"Now he is spending more time in the right areas, which is why his goals tally has gone up.
"And he will improve even more, which is a scary thought for defenders."