England vs. Ukraine: Wayne Rooney's Addition Will Boost England to Quarterfinals

England has survived without arguably its best player in Wayne Rooney, but his return will help the team thrive at Euro 2012.

Rooney was suspended for the opening two games of the tournament after an incident that took place in October. According to UEFA, the forward "assualted" another player by kicking him and a ban was the best way to send a message.

Fortunately for England, the rest of the squad has put themselves in great position going into the final contest of the group stage.

After a 1-1 draw against group favorite France, the English needed to come from behind against Sweden. Substitute Theo Walcott energized the team with an equalizing goal in the 64th minute and then set-up Danny Welbeck to score in the 78th.

The team now only needs a draw against co-hosts Ukraine to advance to the quarterfinals.

England has already proven they have the ability to score, but Rooney is one of the most skilled forwards in the world. With him, they get a focal point of the offense that will make things happen when his teammates get him the ball.

They have been able to score until now, but more chances will only help the team as they try to advance.

Unfortunately, Ukraine will not be an easy victory. A win in front of the home crowd would be an upset, but it would also put them in the knockout stage in place of England.

This team already proved they belong with a victory over Sweden. Andriy Shevchenko scored two goals in that opening game and he has the skill necessary to get past an English defense that has been sloppy so far.

The key for England is to control possession and the pace of the game. Rooney will make the offense more aggressive, but they need to wait for their shot and not allow an easy counter.

If the team plays smart, they have the talent to not only reach the knockout stage, but to do some damage once they get there.