Let Rooney lead England

Saturday, 30/01/2010

John Terry was a great choice to be England captain. But following his headline-hitting indiscretions the Chelsea defender may not be leading his country at the World Cup finals.

Would his international team-mates, especially those from Chelsea, really be able to look up to JT at South Africa 2010?

Should Terry quit before he is pushed by England manager Fabio Capello? That would certainly earn him a lot of respect in football and hopefully let him concentrate on playing.

But who could step into JT’s quite considerable boots? Who can lead by example on the pitch like the formidable centre-back?

Rio Ferdinand, his deputy and the man who ran his close for the armband? He’s missed a lot of football and his disciplinary record won’t impress the FA.

Steven Gerrard? He performs brilliantly in the role for Liverpool but he needs to concentrate on his game for England.

Frank Lampard? Not really the greatest leader of men and probably not a popular choice among many fans.

That leaves Wayne Rooney – who took on the captain’s role against Brazil and who Man United chief Sir Alex Ferguson has tipped as a future Old Trafford skipper.

Rooney is the man on form. But more than that he has matured dramatically in recent years. He has taken control of his often-suspect temper and channelled all of his efforts into his game.

Probably more than any other player he has benefitted from the iron glove of Capello. He’s also got totally respect for the coach, as much respect as he has given to Fergie.

Rooney can currently do no wrong. He would certainly lead from the front and by example.

And there is currently no England fan who wouldn’t have the Roonster as No.1 on their team-sheet.

He’s just 24 but plays with a much older header. Now let’s give him the armband – you know it makes sense!

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