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Gareth Southgate: This is what I think of Wayne Rooney's future England chances
GARETH SOUTHGATE sent a clear message to Wayne Rooney last night that he has not closed the door on the player’s distinguished England career.
Gareth Southgate has refused to close the door on Wayne Rooney's England career
“Rooney has absolutely every chance of being in this team,” said England manager Gareth Southgate.
“There is no reason why he is finished with us, and I simply don’t understand why people are talking about a tribute game for him.”
Gareth Southgate looks on during an England training session ahead of their clash with Lithuania
That idea of a tribute was mooted after England’s match against Germany last week that doubled as a farewell to their veteran striker Lukas Podolski.
Southgate’s reaction yesterday underlined his open mind about Wayne Rooney’s international future. He is too intelligent to rule out talented and committed players.
Wayne Rooney in action for England in a 2018 World Cup Qualifier against Malta
Rooney did not attend an England squad meeting last week to which currently injured players like him were invited.
But the manager said that was not a snub, and not a problem.
“There were many other players who didn’t come to a meeting they were invited to, like Harry Kane. The invite was to make sure they know they are part of the group. That’s all.”