Jordan: Rooney’s still our leader
JORDAN HENDERSON insists Wayne Rooney’s position as England captain has not been diminished by him losing his status as a guaranteed starter. The Liverpool midfielder took over as skipper for the 0-0 draw in Slovenia but Henderson stressed it was a role he expected to hold only for one game. He also made a point of handing the armband to Rooney when the Manchester United man came on as a late substitute. Henderson revealed that Rooney was one of the first to congratulate him. ‘Wayne was brilliant,’ said Henderson. ‘He’s handled the whole thing brilliantly. Even at half-time he was trying to help the lads, telling us how he thought we could improve in the second half. When he came on I thought he did well. ‘We get on well and he just said, “Keep on doing what you have been doing — that’s why you’ve been given the role”. He wished us all the best, but he’s the one we all follow. He’s the captain and one we all look up to. He’s world class and experienced, and he’s shown that this week.’ On becoming the 118th man to start with the armband, Henderson said: ‘I was very proud. But at the same time the focus was to keep doing what I’ve been doing for the team and concentrate on my role. I’m a bit disappointed with the game and that we didn’t win.’ Disappointment was an emotion shared by Gary Cahill, who won his 50th cap in Slovenia. The defender is England’s vice-captain but was told by manager Gareth Southgate in a one-to-one meeting why Henderson would be skipper. ‘It was a decision made by the gaffer and you just have to get on with it,’ said Cahill. ‘Jordan’s the captain and he’s in tremendous form this season. Everyone’s behind him. I spoke to Gareth briefly and he had his reasons.’