Wayne Rooney was reminded of a promise he made ahead of England's last-16 World Cup clash against Mexico and has now asked the BBC if they could switch the location from the River Mersey to the Hudson River.
Rooney's Promise and Norway's Victory
Rooney had promised to row down the River Mersey if Norway beat Brazil on Sunday night to set up a potential quarter-final with England. The former Everton forward said: “If Norway get to the quarter-finals, I will go in the River Mersey and I'll row it down.” Thanks to Erling Haaland's second-half brace, Norway stunned Brazil by winning 2-1 in New Jersey to reach the last eight.
Kelly Cates Reminds Rooney
Kelly Cates was quick to remind Rooney of the promise he made ahead of England's last-16 clash against Mexico. Rooney, though, is ready to embrace the challenge and has even called in reinforcements - Micah Richards and Gabby Logan - but has requested a location change.
He said: “Was that me? Erm, yeah I'm a man of my word. Micah has agreed to do it with me and Gabby. We're a team. They've agreed to it. I'll row no problem. It might have to be the Hudson River if the BBC can sort that. But I'll do it.”
The Viking Row Celebration
The idea of rowing came as Norway's players and staff have celebrated their victories during the World Cup by doing the 'Viking Row', the move that has been seen in various cities, stadiums and beyond.
Haaland's Reaction
Speaking after the win, Haaland said: “If I get a chance or two, it usually ends up as a goal. I don’t know how I do it, but that’s how I do it, so it’s all about staying focused. I tell myself the chance will come, and then I usually know right away if I don’t score. I’m starting to realise now, I think, that it’s a gift from God that it goes in perfectly, perfectly right up against the post and stuff. So it’s crazy. We just kept pushing forward, but I hope that all the young people watching this interview, I hope that when you get a little older, you’ll see playing for Norway as the proudest thing you’ll ever do in your entire life – it’s absolutely insane.”
England's Quarter-Final Matchup
England will now meet Norway in the quarter-final after overcoming Mexico in a pulsating, chaotic 3-2 victory in the early hours on Monday morning.
