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Rooney hails Rice as future England leader
Former England captain Wayne Rooney has tipped Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice to succeed Harry Kane as the Three Lions' next skipper, calling his recent performance "incredible."
Rice's standout display at Everton
Rooney watched Rice dominate Arsenal's 1-0 victory over Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday, a result that lifted the Gunners to the top of the Premier League. The 26-year-old, who has earned 72 England caps, has already worn the armband twice in Kane's absence-once in a 2-2 draw with Belgium in March 2024 and again in a 3-0 win over Wales in October.
"For me, he's the one waiting for Harry to hang up his boots," Rooney said on BBC Sport's The Wayne Rooney Show. "His decision-making-when to pass, where to pass, what foot to use-was a pleasure to watch. He was absolutely incredible."
Rooney highlighted Rice's versatility, noting how he transitioned from splitting centre-backs to acting as a third defender before pushing forward to threaten the goal. "Sometimes, some of the stuff he does is a bit underrated," he added.
Why Rice fits the captaincy
Rooney praised Rice's leadership qualities, citing his drive, personality, and the respect he commands within the squad. "He's the right one to take over [Kane]," Rooney said. "Everyone seems to love him, who knows him, who's close to him. He's irreplaceable for England."
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence and World Cup hopes
Rooney also discussed the form of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, his former Everton teammate, who has scored in each of his last five matches for Leeds United. After a slow start to his Elland Road career, the 28-year-old has found his stride, netting twice in Leeds' 4-1 win over Crystal Palace.
"If he continues this, there's no reason why he shouldn't be talked about-or even get an opportunity-to go to the World Cup," Rooney said, pointing to England's lack of depth in attack. "He competes, he's great in the air, he's good in both boxes. When he's in form, he's a handful."
Calvert-Lewin scored 71 goals for Everton but managed just three in his final season before joining Leeds, plagued by a hamstring injury that sidelined him for over three months. Rooney defended Everton's decision to let him leave, citing his injury record, but praised Leeds' medical staff for keeping him fit.
Gyokeres' role beyond goals
Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres, who scored the winner against Everton, has struggled for goals since his summer move from Sporting. His strike was his seventh of the season-and first since November 1-but Rooney argued his contributions extend beyond scoring.
"He does a bit more than what you see. He occupies the two centre-backs, creating space for your number 10 or wide players. I think he's important for Arsenal."
Wayne Rooney
Rooney acknowledged Gyokeres could improve but stressed his tactical value. "If Arsenal go on to win the league, he'll have had a big role to play," he said.
