ROO CALL-UP CHEAPENS THE SHIRT
Shilton fuming at striker’s pick for USA friendly: ’It’s completely wrong’
PETER SHILTON has accused the FA of “giving away caps” after Wayne Rooney was granted a Wembley farewell.
Shilton, whose 125 England appearances is a record, was “shocked” by a decision he believes is a huge mistake and
will rob another player of a chance to be involved.
Rooney, now with DC United in the MLS, will get a 120th cap – five short of goalkeeper Shilton’s total – and the chance to say goodbye against the USA on November 15.
But Shilton, 69, said: “I was shocked when I read it and I’m still struggling to understand the decision.
“It’s been two years since Wayne last played, England are on a new threshold and have just had a great World Cup but are going backwards with this.
“That’s not to say Wayne doesn’t deserve a tribute but give him a presentation, don’t just give caps away which is wrong and also denies a young player a chance.
“I don’t agree with it at all. It should be the greatest honour and reward playing for your country but the reality is the MLS is nowhere near the same level as the Premier League.
“Wayne Rooney finished with England, Gareth Southgate moved on and I don’t agree with this at all. To actually give him a game in what is a proper England international is completely wrong, in my opinion.”
England boss Southgate will name Rooney in his squad on Thursday for the USA game and Nations League clash with Croatia three days later.
He will train with the squad, come on as a late sub against the US and the proceeds will go towards his charity, with the game being called The Wayne Rooney Foundation International. He will not be involved against Croatia.
Rooney said: “I’m truly humbled and hugely excited to play for England at Wembley again.”