Wayne Rooney has expressed his support for Declan Rice to become the next captain of England.
Rice has been a key player for Arsenal as they aim for the top of the Premier League this season and impressed Rooney during their 1-0 win against Everton on Saturday evening.
The former England captain praised Rice’s performance at The Hill Dickinson Stadium, stating that the 26-year-old is now ‘irreplaceable’ for both club and country. Rooney believes Rice is the prime candidate to take over as England captain when Harry Kane retires from international football.
“For me, he’s the one who’s probably waiting for Harry to hang up his boots at some point,” Rooney told BBC Sport’s The Wayne Rooney Show.
“He was everywhere on the pitch [against Everton]. His decision-making—when to pass, where to pass, which foot to use—was impressive. It was a pleasure to watch. He was incredible.
“He was breaking through the defense, taking the ball from [Arsenal’s] defenders, acting like a third center-back, and then suddenly he was in the box trying to score. Some of his contributions often go unnoticed.
“He’s the right choice to succeed [Kane] because of his drive and character. Everyone seems to respect and appreciate him. He’s irreplaceable for England.”
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