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As it happenedended

Every word from Wayne Rooney's final England pre-match press conference

Rooney will end his England career against the USA on Thursday

Tuesday 13 November 2018 14:17 EST
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Gareth Southgate confirms Wayne Rooney will be part of England squad

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Wayne Rooney understands why his international return might divide opinion but hopes such occasions become the norm for England greats of the future.

Nobody has scored more goals for the national team, nor has any outfield player represented the Three Lions more, but news of the 33-year-old's one-off comeback appearance against the United States still split opinion.

The debate over Rooney's 120th and final cap dominated a packed press conference previewing the friendly, but the DC United forward brushed aside those questioning the decision to recognise in contribution.

Instead, the former Manchester United and Everton great hopes this will become the norm for stars of the future. Here is everything he had to say.


Match preview

When is the match?

The match kicks-off at 8pm on Thursday 15 November.

What have they been saying?

Rooney: “I don't know how much I'm going to play.

“I'll speak to [manager] Gareth Southgate and whatever he wants me to play I'm happy to. It's Gareth's call.

“It's a huge honour for the Football Association to grant me this game.

“To play and be involved in the squad, see some old team-mates and Gareth Southgate, and some of the coaching staff, will be a great moment.

“To pull on the England jersey again in front of the fans will be a way of me to say thank you for the support they've shown me over my time playing for England.”

Where can I watch it?

The match will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event.

Q: In your day players from top four, now from across the PL? How competitive does it seem?

It's competitive. It's good there are players from other teams. Everyone has a good opportunity. That is inspiring to players from across the country. 

Vithushan Ehantharajah13 November 2018 15:54

Q: What do you make of Wilson?

He has started the season well. It is great to see him get the opportunity. To come back from his injury and play so well ... I am sure he will be very proud. 

Vithushan Ehantharajah13 November 2018 15:54

Q: This must have made you cast your mind back...

I just want to get some time on the pitch and enjoy it. Maybe I didn't enjoy my time as much as I should have. I will enjoy my time on the pitch. It will b emotional. 

Vithushan Ehantharajah13 November 2018 15:55

Q: What was your most special moment?

The Poland game which qualified us for the World Cup was great. The one that stands out to me is the goal against Switzerland which broke me the record.

Vithushan Ehantharajah13 November 2018 15:56

Q: Regret that you retired when you did?

No. My decision was the right decision. I could see the younger players coming in the squad and I felt it was the right time for me. And it was the right time for the younger lads to get their opportunity. 

Vithushan Ehantharajah13 November 2018 15:56

That brings the live section of Rooney's press conference to a close.

Reports from Miguel Delaney and Jack Pitt-Brooke will magically appear here very shortly.

Vithushan Ehantharajah13 November 2018 16:19
Vithushan Ehantharajah13 November 2018 18:20

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