Rooney praises Rice after Arsenal victory
Former England striker Wayne Rooney hailed Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice as a “future captain” of the national team. Rooney watched the 26-year-old drive the Gunners back to the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 win at Everton. The former England captain, who led the team from 2014 to 2017, attended the match at Hill Dickinson Stadium to witness Mikel Arteta’s side secure the hard-fought victory.
Rice has earned 72 senior caps and has worn the England armband twice in Harry Kane’s absence. He led the team in a 2-2 draw with Belgium in March 2024 and a 3-0 win over Wales in October this year.
Rooney called Rice the natural successor to Kane, praising his on-pitch intelligence and versatility. “He was all over the pitch against Everton. His passing decisions were impeccable, from timing to foot choice,” Rooney said during the latest episode of his sports show. “He split centre-backs, reclaimed possession, acted as a third defender, then joined attacks. Some of his actions go unnoticed. He combines drive, personality, and leadership qualities. Everyone who knows him admires him. England will miss no one more than Rice when Kane retires.”
Calvert-Lewin fighting for World Cup place
Wayne Rooney highlighted the resurgence of former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has enjoyed a purple patch at Leeds United. The 28-year-old scored only once in his first ten league appearances but now has five consecutive goals, including two in Leeds’ 4-1 win over Crystal Palace. Rooney believes Calvert-Lewin could earn a spot in England’s squad for next summer’s World Cup across the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
“If he continues this run, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be considered for the World Cup,” Rooney said. “England has limited options up front. He competes strongly, excels in the air, and thrives in both penalty areas. He’s dangerous when in form. He remains young and still has plenty to offer. People often forget his quality.”
Calvert-Lewin scored 71 goals at Everton but managed just three in his final season, hampered by a hamstring injury. Rooney explained, “Everton made the right decision letting him go. He struggled with injuries, was out of contract, and it would have been hard to offer a new deal. At Leeds, he has stayed fit, and the physios have done a great job.”
Gyokeres contributes beyond goals
Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres scored the only goal against David Moyes’ side, marking his first goal since early November. Despite a slow start since his transfer from Sporting, Rooney highlighted the Swedish forward’s broader impact on the team.
“He does more than you see on the scoresheet,” Rooney said. “He occupies the centre-backs, Tarkowski and Keane, creating space for attacking teammates. He plays an important tactical role for Arsenal. His contributions often go unnoticed but are crucial for the team’s success. Can he score more? Absolutely. But if Arsenal win the league, he will have played a key part.”
