England have confirmed that their all-time record-goalscorer Wayne Rooney will make a farewell appearance against the USA next week.
Rooney became England highest capped outfield player when he made his 116th Three Lions cap against Slovakia in September 2016.
The former Manchester United and Everton striker went to make another three appearances for England before calling time on his international career on August 23, 2017.
However, the FA have now confirmed that the 33-year-old will be included in Gareth Southgate’s squad to face the USA at Wembley next week in a statement that read: “Wayne Rooney is set to make his 120th and final England appearance next week, as The FA honours his record-breaking international career.
“England’s fixture against the USA is to be called The Wayne Rooney Foundation International in support of the legend’s charitable interests.
“Manager Gareth Southgate will also name the 33-year-old in his squad to face the Americans at Wembley Stadium on Thursday 15 November (8pm kick-off).”
Why Wayne Rooney is being included in the England squad
For one final time, an England legend will represent his country.
Rooney Returns. 🦁🦁🦁pic.twitter.com/HRV8yl3peX
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) November 4, 2018
Wayne Rooney’s inclusion in Southgate’s squad gives fans a chance to show their appreciation for England’s all-time highest capped outfield player and record-goalscorer, with the DC United forward netting 53 times across 119 caps.
But, more importantly, the fixture is now being billed as the ‘Wayne Rooney Foundation International’ in support of his charitable interests.
The Foundation has supported a number of good causes, including the NSPCC, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Claire House Children’s Hospice.
Rooney is understandably thrilled at the prospect of pulling on the Three Lions jersey one more time, saying: “I am truly humbled and hugely excited to play for England at Wembley again. I would like to thank Gareth Southgate and The FA for inviting me back and helping to support my Foundation in the process.
“Playing for England was the greatest honour of my career – so winning my 120th, and final, cap will be a particularly special moment for me. It’s fitting that the match will be against the USA and I hope that both sets of fans enjoy the game.”
How fans reacted to news of Wayne Rooney’s farewell cap
Despite being for a good cause, and in honour of an all-time England great, Rooney’s inclusion in the latest England squad has divided opinion, with some fans wanting the FA to focus on the future rather than looking at the past.
Here is how Twitter reacted.
Sorry but just no. Give a young player some minutes. Can't believe that Gareth is happy about this
— Dan Philipson (@dannypne7) November 4, 2018
Left his shirt behind, best post it 2 him in DC lads
— Sean from Enderby (@seanfromenderby) November 4, 2018
Weird flex but ok
— Sam Ainsworth
️
(@samainsworth1) November 4, 2018
Embarrassing! The game has gone. For all the hard work Rooney has put in over his career, giving out pity caps is just a money making exercise. I'm surprised he accepted it.
— Gav Bailey LFC⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (@GavBailey79) November 4, 2018
However, other England fans understand the sentiment behind Rooney’s inclusion and are happy to see the 33-year-old getting a fitting send-off.
Rooney deserves a proper send off. Good move by @England and the FA
— GMPM (@GMPM1972) November 4, 2018
Good decision! Was a great player for us. Roooooney
— Liam Kennedy (@KennaSAFC) November 4, 2018
YESSSS LEGEND
— ٰ (@MaanManUtd) November 4, 2018
The post England confirm farewell cap for record-scorer Wayne Rooney against USA appeared first on Squawka News.
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