Please let Sven take over RM or Porto or Spartak Praha

and meet up with Ferguson and MU in the early rounds of CL07/08. While we wait for that handshake and post-match beer, what? No? Really? Okay, while we wait for that pre- and post-match press brawl let's enjoy United having their hands tied by the FA and Fifa. Rooney's playing. Sven says as early as the group stage. Because we know in the June 20th match the Swedish players will treat Rooney with kid gloves. They wouldn't think of a late challenge or coming down hard on his foot after a header. Right? Especially if they've already knocked in an own goal against Paraguay and trail England at the half.

The Green Cobra is already recoiling for its second i-told-you-so. Until then the Guardian resets the pins.