England manager Gareth Southgate sticks with Wayne Rooney as captain
But 46-year-old admits it is important to develop more leaders in the squad
Newly confirmed England manager Gareth Southgate said Wayne Rooney will remain captain as he faced the media on Thursday for the first time since his permanent appointment.
Rooney, 31, apologised after being pictured looking worse for wear as he mingled with wedding guests at the England team hotel in the early hours during the most recent international break.
Southgate dropped him for a 0-0 World Cup qualifying draw in Slovenia, but recalled him for England’s 3-0 win over Scotland, before injury forced the Manchester United forward to withdraw from the squad.
“I said that from the beginning of the interim period. What’s also clear is that I’ve only selected him to start in two of the four matches we’ve had.
“It is not a case that Wayne expects to play every game. It’s important we develop more leaders in that group.