THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

LONDON -- Wayne Rooney has been up close to the World Cup trophy in a photo shoot and, with 30 goals already this season, hopes he can get his hands on it for real in July.

The Manchester United striker was under orders not to handle the trophy, which was in central London on Thursday as part of a worldwide tour.

England's hopes of winning the World Cup for the first time since 1966 weigh heavily on Rooney's shoulders and his form for United this season, including the two goals he scored in Wednesday's 4-0 victory over AC Milan in the Champions League, has strengthened the belief that the long wait could soon be over.

Rooney says he is trying not to think too much about the World Cup right now and is concentrating on club competitions.