IT’S JUST LIKE WATCHING FROM BRAZIL
Pedro gets to see Rooney in flesh
NEW Watford hero Joao Pedro had not reached his first birthday when Wayne Rooney made his league debut.
But the Hornets’ teenage prodigy says he will not be star- struck when he comes up against the England legend tonight.
Pedro, who has just turned 19, said: “It’s going to be a huge experience to play against Rooney. I don’t know him personally, but I remember watching him when I was growing up back in Brazil.
“I know what he has achieved, but my focus must be 100 per cent on the game. I don’t see it as pressure. I look at this as a chance to fulfil my potential.”
Pedro has already secured his place in the hearts of Hornets fans by scoring the winner against ainst arch- rivals Luton on his 19th birthday last month.
Never mind that derby y – now he’s gunning for r Derby.
Pedro has only respect t for Rooney – 35 next xt month – as Watford go in search of their first away win in 279 days. England’s record goalscorer, above, made his Everton debut at 16 on August 17, 2002. But as a role model, Pedro is more inclined to follow in the footsteps of compatriot Richarlison, who blazed a trail from in Rio to Hertfordshire three years ago – and whose transfer value rocketed 400 per cent to £ 45million in one season at Vicarage Road.
Pedro, who came to England from the same club, Fluminense, said: “Being
Pedro was a baby when Rooney launched his career but tonight they collide
young motivates me even more because other youngsters will see me. “I know what’s possible: Richarlison was a big player here and I recognise that. He reached a higher level [ now at Everton] by making the most of every training session, playing games, and that’s exactly what I want to do.
“I’m grateful to the fans – I know that goa goal against Luton was very impo important to them and it was to me too, especially for my co confidence.”
Watford manager Vladimir Iv Ivic, whose side have scored ju just two goals in four games – the same as Derby, but with fou four more points to show for it – said: “Joao has potential and qu quality. We’re happy he’s a guy who will improve. For sure, he’ll be one of our important players this year.”
Derby boss Phillip Cocu says any talk of Rooney replacing him as manager is a “waste of energy”. Reports suggest the Dutchman is on the brink, with player- coach Rooney lined up to succeed him. Cocu said: “I don’t want to react. It’s a waste of energy. I’m not going anywhere.”