Giggs: Rooney deserves to get England farewell

RYAN Giggs has backed the shock England return of former United colleague Wayne Rooney by applauding it as an opportunity to recognise an ‘iconic player’.

The 33-year-old Rooney, now playing in Major League Soccer with DC United, has not played for England in almost two years.

But he will come out of international retirement for the Wembley friendly against the United States on November 15 to win his 120th England cap.

Rooney’s return has provoked a fierce debate on social media, with some describing it as a fitting send-off for the country’s record goalscorer and others saying it makes a mockery of international football.

“I understand it. It’s a celebration game against America and I’m all for it,” said Wales manager Giggs, who spent a decade playing alongside Rooney and also later coached him at Old Trafford.

“In football, and in sport in general, people are not recognised or are recognised too late.

“This is a chance for not only a great player, but an iconic player and top goalscorer.

“He’s gone ahead of Gary Lineker and Bobby Charlton, over 50 goals. It gives him a chance to thank the fans for all the support, and the fans to thank him for all the work he’s done over the years.

“I’ve worked with Wayne, played with Wayne, and he doesn’t get recognised for what ability he still has and did have at his peak.

“I don’t see any problem with it.”