England star Wayne Rooney savours captaincy role as Roy Hodgson ponders Euro 2016 tactics
WAYNE ROONEY could play at the tip of a diamond, as a centre-forward, wide in a three-man attack or even in England's midfield at Euro 2016 depending on the circumstances.
Yet for all the intrigue that persists over his starting position, there is one role he will not be fulfilling in France. It is that of babysitter to a squad with an average age of just over 25 years.
The sideways swipe that Rooney heads to the European Championships largely because he boasts 'experience' needs to be nipped in the bud now regardless of the merits of Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy et al.
Yet, from the outside looking in, too many issues remain up in the air. Rooney at least provides a constant with his desire to be integral on the pitch not just around the camp.
"I want to be successful and try and win a trophy," he added.
England (4-4-2): Hart; Clyne, Cahill, Smalling, Rose; Dier, Henderson, Alli, Rooney; Kane, Vardy.
Portugal (4-4-2): Rui Patrà cio; Vieirinha, Pepe, Ricardo Carvalho, Eliseu; João Mario, João Moutinho, Danilo, Rafa; Nani, Eder. Referee: Marco Guida (Italy)
Kick-off: 7.45pm TV: ITV 1