Real Madrid's Helguera slams Man Utd's Rooney as overrated

Real Madrid defender Ivan Helguera insists Manchester United star Wayne Rooney is overrated.

Ahead of this week's international between Spain and England, Helguera rapped: "Rooney has the ability and the speed - but he loses himself in his bad temper on the pitch. That is a big problem."

"He is a player with potential. He possesses good qualities, but he still has not won anything in the world of football."

"He is now playing for a great club in Manchester United and the media is over-promoting him."

"But I ask myself: 'What trophy has Rooney won?' "

Madrid star David Beckham is likely to return from injury to captain his country.

Helguera added: "Beckham is key to the English team."

"I would prefer it if he didn't play against Spain and if he would be in perfect physical condition for Real Madrid's difficult game against Barcelona next Saturday."

"England have an excellent team. It won't be an easy game, with or without Beckham on the pitch."

"It will be a good test for us and for our 2006 World Cup campaign."

"They will also have Michael Owen and he is a super player."

"He treats his teammates well and he is looking to adapt to Madrid as fast as possible."