England manager Gareth Southgate is disappointed by criticism of decision to give Wayne Rooney a farewell match.
Wayne Rooney will wear the number 10 shirt and captain’s armband when he comes on for his final England appearance in the friendly with the United States.
“The players are very keen that Wayne wears the number 10 and we believe that is a fitting tribute,” England manager Gareth Southgate said ahead of Thursday’s friendly (NZT Friday).
“All of our group have huge respect for Wayne and they feel that it is fitting that his last game should in the number 10,” added the England manager.
Rooney, who now plays in Major League Soccer for DC United, will start on the bench before entering the field for his 120th and final cap in the international at Wembley Stadium.
Southgate did not want to fix a time in the game when Rooney would come on but said he had discussed it with the 33-year-old.
