players at United." In that Rooney must now take responsibility not only on the pitch, but off it where injuries and concerns over fitness have too often disrupted a career blessed by unlimited natural talent. Nor has the former Everton forward found Cantona's consistent brilliance, or iconic status -- the ability to inspire a generation and lead a team to greater glories. If Rooney is yet to match Cantona's legend, he is increasing mirroring the Frenchman's role on the pitch, becoming the creative focal point in Sir Alex Ferguson's team. On Saturday Rooney shadowed Robin van Persie at St. James' Park, drifting between the lines as United's iconic number seven did in 185 games for the club. This is a role Rooney is likely to replicate for the national side this week, with expectations of an English victory high and Rooney determined to finally excel on the international stage. Manager Hodgon says Rooney's time is now. "Every time Wayne Rooney goes on the field people expect him to be magnificent," said Hodgson. "We all know he is a magnificent player but football doesn't give you the opportunity to be magnificent every time you step onto a football field. I'm looking forward very much to the next couple of years with Wayne, he's going to be an important person as each team needs that person up front who can make a difference, who scores the goals or sets them up." United's number 10 is also likely to reprise Cantona's role as