Jose Mourinho believes Wayne Rooney is at the “best age” to shine at the World Cup

England's forward Wayne Rooney takes part in a training session at the Urca military base in Rio de Janeiro

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has backed England striker Wayne Rooney to shine this summer for his country at the World Cup, but also believes that a poor showing in Brazil could be blowing his best chance to shine on the world stage.

Rooney is part of the 23-man party that will represent England in Brazil this summer, with their first game against Italy just four days away.

Rooney has had his role in the England team questioned by many, with some believing he is not worthy of a guaranteed berth in the starting XI.

Mourinho, who attempted to sign Rooney during the opening months of last summer, believes the Manchester United striker is the country’s main hope but admits this is the strikers last chance to shine.

Gianfranco Zola believes Rooney is a player to watch at the World Cup and Mourinho backed up the former Chelsea striker.

Mourinho told reporters: “He is not a kid anymore, he is not an old player at the end of his career, he is in what I call the best age.I think it is his World Cup and I think he has also a role as a leader in the team, a little bit similar that he had also in United this season.

“He is a guy with responsibilities in the national team, I think he is ready to cope with this pressure.

“I think that can play a positive role in his ambition, in his anger to succeed. I have faith in him, I have faith that he can do it.”