Upset: Rooney was distraught as England lost on penalties

'I think in all top international teams, you're looking at one, two, possibly three individuals that everyone recognises as being exceptional world-class talents.

'When you get to the big stage, you're hoping those players perform and show they're world-class talents, like the Maradonas that win Argentina a World Cup with his performance.'

Rooney went on holiday in Las Vegas at the end of the domestic season and was pictured at a nightclub until the early hours.

But Hodgson was adamant Rooney was fit and up to speed in training sessions even though his only action in six weeks before returning against Ukraine was as a second half substitute against Belgium.

When asked if the Las Vegas trip was ideal, Hodgson said: 'Well, we haven't noticed anything with his fitness levels. We've monitored his fitness levels and in training he has looked very fit.

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