Rooney says Rice is England’s next leader and the signs are already there
Rice emerging as England’s natural successor
Former England captain Wayne Rooney believes Declan Rice is positioning himself as a future leader of the national team following another influential performance for Arsenal.
The 26 year old midfielder played a key role as Mikel Arteta’s side secured a hard fought 1,0 Premier League victory away at Everton, a result that returned Arsenal to the top of the table.
Rooney attended the match at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and later shared his thoughts on BBC Sport’s The Wayne Rooney Show, according to BBC Sport.
Rice has already captained England on two occasions in the absence of Harry Kane, leading the side during a 2,2 draw with Belgium in March 2024 and a 3,0 win over Wales earlier this year.
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“For me, he’s the one who’s probably waiting for Harry to hang up his boots at some point,” Rooney said.
Influence that goes beyond position
Rooney highlighted Rice’s ability to impact matches from multiple areas of the pitch, praising his composure and decision making in both defensive and attacking phases.
He pointed to Rice’s tendency to drop deep to collect possession from defenders before stepping forward to support attacks, describing his awareness and passing detail as standout qualities.
According to Rooney, Rice’s mentality and authority within the squad separate him from others in his position, leading him to describe the midfielder as “irreplaceable for England”.
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Calvert Lewin finding form again at Leeds
Rooney also reflected on the recent resurgence of Dominic Calvert Lewin, his former Everton teammate who is now playing for Leeds United.
After a slow start to the season, the striker has scored in five consecutive matches, including two goals in a 4,1 victory over Crystal Palace.
“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,” Rooney said, referencing England’s limited options in attack.
Fitness finally unlocking his potential
Calvert Lewin scored 71 goals during his time at Everton but endured repeated injury setbacks toward the end of his spell on Merseyside.
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Rooney said Everton’s decision not to renew the striker’s contract was understandable due to his fitness record and expiring deal. He added that Leeds’ medical staff deserve credit for helping the 28 year old remain available and consistent.
Why Gyokeres still matters to Arsenal’s title push
Rooney also defended Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres, who scored the decisive penalty against Everton but has faced scrutiny over his overall numbers this season.
The goal was Gyokeres’ seventh in all competitions and his first since early November. According to Rooney, the striker’s contribution goes beyond goals.
“He does a bit more than what you see,” Rooney explained, noting how Gyokeres occupies defenders and creates space for teammates in advanced areas.
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While accepting that more goals are expected from a forward in Arsenal’s system, Rooney said Gyokeres’ movement and physical presence could still prove vital if Arsenal’s title challenge continues.
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