Wayne Rooney deserves his place in the pantheon of English football's finest, according to former England striker Gary Lineker. The Three Lions captain is set to win his 100th cap on Saturday against Slovenia in a Euro 2016 qualifier, a milestone achieved by only eight players before him.
Lineker, who scored 48 goals in 80 appearances for England, praised Rooney's consistent performances and goal-scoring record. 'He has scored 40-odd goals for his country and has been a consistent performer,' Lineker told BBC Radio 5 live.
Rooney, 29, has scored 43 goals for England across three World Cups and two European Championships. While his form in major tournaments has been questioned, Lineker noted that Rooney has often arrived at these competitions not in prime condition, and the team has sometimes underperformed.
'There is no doubt he is a great player,' Lineker added. 'He is brilliant at finding space and dropping deep. He is a good all-round footballer and scores plenty of goals.' Rooney plans to celebrate his 100th cap by walking out at Wembley with his children, Kai and Klay.
