Gareth Southgate has confirmed that Jordan Henderson will captain England against Slovenia on Tuesday after it was revealed Wayne Rooney would not start.
Rooney, 31, became England’s most capped outfielder in their 2-0 win over Malta on Saturday but will start against Slovenia from the bench due to what Southgate has called a ‘tactical decision’.
The England captain has also lost his place in the Manchester United team this season and admits he is in one of the most difficult stages of his career.
“My game now? Of course, I’m not denying it is in a difficult period,” BBC Sport quote Rooney as saying at their pre-match press conference. “I’ve been on the bench the last few games for Manchester United but that’s part of football.
“I have to work hard and, when I’m needed for both club and country, I’ll make sure I’m ready.”
Wayne Rooney: Has made just 9 sub apps for England since making his debut in February 2003; 3 of those 9 have been in his last 10 matches pic.twitter.com/F2HKBWQ1si
— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) October 10, 2016
Rooney has made just nine substitute appearances for England since making his debut in February 2003; three of those nine have come in his last 10 matches.
For more stats on Wayne Rooney, click here to visit his WhoScored player page
