Wayne Rooney is calling it quits with the England national team after the 2018 World Cup, according to BBC. Speaking to the media, the 30-year-old captain said his mind is made up.
"Come Russia, I feel that will be the time to say goodbye to international football," Rooney said. The player has played 115 matches for England, scoring 53 goals. Come that World Cup, Rooney will be 32. Playing in top-tier leagues in Europe, 35 is an age most don't reach playing, so 32 sounds like a good age to stop playing internationally while still likely playing club soccer.
Though the Manchester United man has shifted from that No. 9 striker position to more of a No. 10, he has been the heart and soul of the England attack for years and one of the biggest names in international soccer. With him leaving after the cup, here are the three main players to carry his load at the 2022 World Cup.
Harry Kane, Tottenham
The 23-year-old Spurs star hasn't gotten off to a fine start this season but he was dynamite for Tottenham last campaign 25 league goals in 38 games. He is the future up top for the Three Lions.
Marcus Rashford, Manchester United
Always in the right place at the right time, this 18-year-old could be a star in attack for England. He has the speed, smarts and skill to score consistently for England, though he will likely play on the wing.
Daniel Sturridge, Liverpool
If the former Chelsea man can stay healthy, he is the guy. The most talented of the strikers, Sturridge was brilliant in 2013-14, scoring 23 goals for Liverpool before missing most of the last two seasons. It's always about his healthy, but there is no denying his quality (and dance moves) when in shape.
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