The Everton teenager burst onto the club and international scene last season, scoring a number of spectacular goals for Everton as well as becoming England's youngest international.

But this term he has struggled for form at times and has recently been returned to the bench by manager David Moyes to protect him as he learns how to handle the big time. He is expected to start from the substitutes' bench again on Boxing Day against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

But the 18-year-old, who has been told there will be no new contract discussions until the end of the season, insists he is coping well and that he believes Everton can build on their recent upturn in form, which has contributed to a run of five matches in which the side has lost only once.

"I do not really think this season is more difficult than my first, I think there is just a bit more expectation this season and that goes not just for me but the rest of the squad," Rooney told Everton's official website.

"And I still believe we can get into Europe. If we put together a run of results similar to last term and keep the pressure on those teams above us, then I do not see why we cannot qualify for Europe.

"There is an excellent spirit within the dressing room. The season has been OK so far but we know there is room for improvement."

Rooney also expressed his sympathy for England team-mate Rio Ferdinand over the eight-month ban that will force him to miss the Euro 2004 finals.

"If Rio does not go to the finals it will be a major blow for England."