Shearer: "Lay Off Fat Boy!"

Last updated : 11 October 2006 By Footy Mad - Editor

Wayne Rooney was substituted as England struggled to break down Macedonia on Saturday, but ex-England skipper Alan Shearer says class will always shine through.

Shearer: "He's going through a lean spell but it happens to everyone and he'll get over it. It's just a matter of time. I certainly wouldn't leave him out. Wayne Rooney at 90% is better than most players at 100%.

"Wayne certainly doesn't need any advice from me. He's a world-class player and what's happening to him happens to us all.

"Everyone has to understand that. Players are not machines - you can't just turn them on and expect them to perform every week."