When Wayne Rooney watches England at the World Cup next year, he will realise what a rash decision he has made
Everton ace called time on his international career after making his Three Lions debut 14 years ago
WAYNE ROONEY has made a mistake – and he will regret it.
England’s record goalscorer may deny it but he has clearly made a rash decision to retire from international football.
When he watches the team on the television next summer – providing we actually qualify for the World Cup in Russia – he will curse today’s announcement.
It is particularly curious when you read the following quotes from Rooney, which he gave at St George’s Park on August 30, 2016.
So, exactly one year ago.
He said: “Realistically I know myself that Russia will be my last opportunity to do anything with England. Hopefully I can end my time with England on a high.
“I said before the Euros I enjoyed playing in this team, and that’s the case still. There were some questions about whether I should stop playing, but I am looking forward to getting back on the pitch.
“I made my mind up before the Euros, whether we did well or not, that I was going to continue. I’ve had nothing to think about since then.”
Wayne Rooney - His England career broken down
- England appearances: 119
- Debut: vs Australia 12 Feb 2013, aged 17 years 111 days
- International goals: 53 – England’s record goal haul
- First goal: vs Macedonia 6 September 2003
- Wins: 71, Draws: 29, Losses: 19
- Major tournaments: Six
- World Cup goals: One - vs Uruguay in 2014
- Red cards: Two – Portugal 2006, Montenegro 2012
- Caps as captain: 22 games
- First captaincy: vs Brazil 14 November 2009
- England managers : Six – Eriksson, McClaren, Capello, Hodgson, Allardyce, Southgate
Some people try and rewrite history. Admittedly, the Euro 2016 campaign was a total embarrassment because the team lost to Iceland.
But even though Roy Hodgson got stick for starting Rooney in midfield for the opener against Russia, we should not forget that he was actually the team's best player. And that match was just over 14 months ago.
Leading 1-0, the problems started for the team when Rooney was taken off with Jack Wilshere his repacement. Russia nicked a 1-1 draw.
Albeit as a sub, Rooney could also have played a part for Southgate as an attacking midfielder.