The Sports Matrix: Monday 18 June 2012

Walcott a worry for England as Rooney returns

Theo Walcott is doubtful for England's final group game, against the Ukraine tomorrow, following a recurrence of a hamstring injury. The Arsenal midfielder, right, helped turn the game in Friday's win over Sweden, but will have further tests today after limping out of training. England's forward options in Donetsk tomorrow will be boosted by Wayne Rooney's return from suspension and the Manchester United striker is eager to make up for lost time. "I've no complaints with the ban," the 26-year-old said.

"I'm just happy I'm finally available to play and hopefully do well. In tournaments I haven't been good enough. I hope I can put it right. Hopefully If I can do that it gives the team a good chance of going far in this competition." MORE

Ronaldo double downs Dutch hopes

A Cristiano Ronaldo double helped Portugal come from behind to beat Netherlands 2-1 and send the Dutch home. Rafael van der Vaart put Bert van Marwijk's side ahead from range before Ronaldo turned the game around to confirm Portugal as Group B runners-up. MORE

Bender goal takes Germany through

Germany maintained their 100 per cent record with a 2-1 victory over Denmark in Lviv, taking them through as Group B winners to a quarter-final with Greece. Lukas Podolski's goal was cancelled out by Michael Krohn-Dehli, before Lars Bender secured the points. MORE

Trapattoni lashes out at Keane

Giovanni Trapattoni has hit back at Roy Keane following his criticism of the Republic of Ireland's play as they exited the tournament. "He has to think about what he has won as a manager," the manager said. "For such an intelligent man, I don't understand."MORE

Villas-Boas on the Spurs shortlist

Former Chelsea coach Andre Villas-Boas and Laurent Blanc have emerged as front-runners for the Tottenham Hotspur vacancy. Chairman Daniel Levy wants to appoint Harry Redknapp's successor by the end of the month so as to prepare for the new season. MORE

Nalbandian injures judge with kick

David Nalbandian was yesterday defaulted from the final of the Aegon Championship after injuring a line judge when kicking an advertising panel. "Sometimes you cannot control those moments," he said. "But everybody makes mistakes." MORE

Lancaster to assess 'capable' players

England coach Stuart Lancaster says he will assess his squad after Saturday's 36-27 defeat to South Africa. "When we reach the autumn Tests we'll want a very clear idea of which players are capable of moving up to the next level," he said. MORE

Injured Youngs to miss final Test

Ben Youngs faces three months out after damaging his shoulder during Saturday's defeat in South Africa. "It was only after a night's sleep that he really found himself struggling," coach Stuart Lancaster said. "It became clear his tour was over." MORE

Bell puts name in frame for England

Ian Bell's splendid century may have answered England opening problem, having fielded seven different one-day partnerships in the last year Bell overcame a broken jaw to post an accomplished knock in the opening ODI with West Indies. MORE

Opinion:James Lawton

Undoubtedly Wayne Rooney is the best home product since Paul Gascoigne, the most naturally talented, the most intuitive. Unfortunately he has also revealed a fault line almost as broad. MORE