Rooney ready for bench duty

Wayne Rooney has vowed to give his all for England after being left out of the starting XI for the World Cup qualifier against Slovenia in Ljubljana.

The Three Lions skipper is the most-capped outfield player in history for his country, but interim boss Gareth Southgate has confirmed that Rooney will start on the bench on Tuesday evening, with Eric Dier set to be preferred in midfield.

I understand and I respect the manager’s decision and I’ll support the players 100 per cent.

Wayne Rooney

However, while Rooney is disappointed to be left out of the team, he has vowed to do all he can to try and help England secure a fifth win in five meetings with Slovenia.

He told reporters: “Of course, I’m not denying it is in a difficult period. I’ve been on the bench the last few games for Manchester United but that’s part of football.

“I have to work hard and when I’m needed for both club and country, I’ll make sure I’m ready.”

“A time comes when you’re not the first name on the teamsheet, which I have been in the past.”

“I understand and I respect the manager’s decision and I’ll support the players 100 per cent, and try to help the players get three points.

“I show great pride in playing for my country, whether that’s from the start or from the bench. Of course you want to be on the pitch, but my role as captain won’t change off the pitch.”

Rooney can now be backed at 12/5 to score at any time in Ljubljana, with England 11/2to win 2-0 and 10/11 to keep a clean sheet.