Wayne Rooney tonight declared himself devastated by the broken foot injury which has left his World Cup dream hanging in the balance.
The Manchester United striker is hoping his club's medical staff can have him fit in time for Sven-Goran Eriksson to plan on using him during England's campaign in Germany.
But as Alex Ferguson cast doubt on whether that was realistic, the 20-year-old could only offer a modicum of comfort to those England supporters who consider their World Cup chances to rest on his shoulders.
"I think, first of all, I've got to come in every day," Rooney told MUTV. "I know that with the physio team behind me at Manchester United they'll be giving me the best possible chance.
"Obviously I'm devastated to break my foot. At this moment in time it's horrible really, but you have got to get on with it, be positive, and try to get myself fit as soon as possible."
Rooney also asked to be allowed to undertake his recovery from injury in privacy, but given the proximity of the World Cup finals, which begin on June 9 - a day before England's opener against Paraguay - there will continue to be widespread interest in his progress.
Bulletins are expected to be issued when appropriate.
Even before the injury, United boss Ferguson had revealed his concern that too much pressure was being foisted on the 20-year-old, who shone at Euro 2004 and has continued to impress on every outing for England.
