LADBROKES are 2/1 about Wayne Rooney playing his first game in the last 16 of the world cup, following his scan earlier this week.

The Manchester United forward-sidelined since breaking a metatarsal at Stamford Bridge on April 29- is a 9/2 chance to appear first in the quarter finals. And a fairy tale return for the final in Berlin on July 9 is 33/1.

Ladbrokes spokesman, Nick Weinberg, said: "Punters have been buoyed by the news about Rooney. It's unlikely that he'll be risked in the group stages which is why we think his first appearance will be in the second round.

"If England can't get through their group without their talisman they don't deserve to be in the competition."

Bookies are 3/1 about the United man not figuring at all in the finals.

LATEST BETTING

When will Rooney play his first game?

Trinidad and Tobago 8/1
Sweden 3/1
2nd Round 2/1
Quarter finals 9/2
Semi finals 14/1
3/4 Place play off 40/1
Final 33/1

To play no part 3/1