Switzerland vs England: David Beckham praises Wayne Rooney as 'an inspiration' to England team-mates

Beckham believes that giving the captaincy to Rooney will help the striker flourish with the national team

Agency
Friday 05 September 2014 07:14 EDT
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Wayne Rooney at Wembley
Wayne Rooney at Wembley (GETTY IMAGES)

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David Beckham believes Wayne Rooney will prove an inspirational England captain to his team-mates.

Rooney was permanent England skipper for the first time in Wednesday night's win over Norway and leads Roy Hodgson's into Euro 2016 qualification in Switzerland on Monday.

"Young players will look up to Wayne for inspiration," Beckham, England captain on 59 occasions, including on Rooney's debut against Australia in 2003, told the Football Association's website.

"He's one of the most experienced players in the team now. He's now the most respected player in the team.

"He's a player who wears his heart on his sleeve. People want to see that passion; you fight for every ball and celebrate every goal you score, or every goal you set up.

"That's what Wayne's all about. Wayne's such a great talent, such a great player, people love him, fans love him and it's great to see him with the armband. It's something I know he'll cherish."

PA

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