Wayne Rooney: England captain to quit internationals after 2018 World Cup

England record goalscorer Wayne Rooney will retire from international football after the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The Manchester United forward was speaking to the media for the first time since new England manager Sam Allardyce confirmed he would keep the 30-year-old as his captain.

"Come Russia I feel that will be the time to say goodbye to international football," said Rooney, who has scored 53 goals in 115 England appearances.

"My mind is made up."

If he plays in Sunday's World Cup qualifier in Slovakia (17:00 BST kick-off), he will break David Beckham's record for the most capped outfield England player.

"Russia will be my last opportunity to do anything with England so I'm going to try to enjoy these two years and hopefully I can end my time with England on a high."

Rooney has not yet discussed with Allardyce what position he will play.

He was a midfielder during Euro 2016 under Roy Hodgson, who left his post after their last-16 exit to Iceland.

Under new United boss Jose Mourinho this season, he has played behind the striker - which is where Allardyce has told the media Rooney will play for England.

"Obviously it's the managers decision," said Rooney. "We haven't really spoken about it - we will in the next couple of days. I'm ready to play whether it's midfield, number 10 or striker."

Tweet

Do not miss the best of the post from Paddizone. Subscribe via email now:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Related Posts:

By Unknown on Tuesday 30 August 2016