Pele has warned Manchester United striker Wayne
Rooney that he must learn to control his temper if he is to become
a world class player.
Rooney has been criticised for his aggressive approach in
United's 1-1 draw with South African outfit Kaizer Chiefs on
Saturday.
The England striker received a yellow card for a rash challenge
on Tinashe Nengomashe, while Onismor Bhasera claims he was
elbowed.
And Brazilian legend Pele believes Rooney, who was substituted
after one hour, must learn to control his physical approach in
order to reproduce his form of four years ago.
"I like Wayne Rooney, but he hasn't reached the peak of Euro
2004 again," said Pele.
"He had two or three very good years and then
lost a little bit in his performances. I don't know why.
"When he's tangling with opponents, Rooney has to learn how to
defend himself - not attack the opponent.
"If you can protect yourself against challenges, it will be
easier to keep your temper.
"It should be possible because referees also help strikers
now.
"Once a defender gets a yellow card, he knows one more tackle
could see him sent off so they don't make another bad
challenge."
