‘Incredible’ Rice is ‘Future Captain of England’ – Rooney

Former England striker Wayne Rooney has hailed Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice as a potential future captain of the Three Lions. Rooney, who captained England from 2014 to 2017, was at the Hill Dickinson Stadium to watch Arsenal secure a 1-0 win over Everton, with Rice instrumental in the victory.

Rooney’s Praise for Rice

Rooney was impressed by Rice’s performance, citing his exceptional decision-making, passing ability, and work rate. “He was all over the pitch,” Rooney said. “His decision-making – when to pass it, where to pass it, what foot to pass it to, his detail on his pass – it was a pleasure to watch. He was absolutely incredible.”
Rooney believes Rice has the potential to become the next England captain, following in the footsteps of current skipper Harry Kane. “For me, he’s the one who’s probably waiting for Harry to hang up his boots at some point,” Rooney said. “He’s the right one to take over [Kane] for me, because [of] his drive, his personality. Everyone seems to love him, who knows him, who’s close to him. He’s irreplaceable for England.”

Rooney’s Thoughts on Calvert-Lewin and Gyokeres

Rooney also shared his thoughts on Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Viktor Gyokeres. He believes Calvert-Lewin, who has found form at Leeds United, could force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad next summer. “If he continues this, then there’s no reason why he shouldn’t be talked about – or even get an opportunity – to go to the World Cup, purely because of the lack of forwards England have got,” Rooney said.
Rooney also praised Gyokeres, who has struggled for form since his summer move from Sporting. “He does a bit more than what you see,” Rooney said. “Even [on Saturday], he occupies the two centre-backs, [James] Tarkowski and Michael Keane. That creates a bit more space for your number 10 or your wide players who are coming inside.”

Source: Link