JAKARTA - Wayne Rooney has named Declan Rice as a future England captain candidate after his strong performances for Arsenal this season.
Rice has been a mainstay in Arsenal's bid for the league title this season, missing only one start in the Premier League this season.
The midfielder occasionally wears the armband for the Gunners and has done so twice for England as well when Harry Kane is unavailable.
"For me, he's the one who might be waiting for Harry (Kane) to hang up his boots one day. He was all over the pitch (against Everton)."
"The decision-making - when to pass, where to pass, which foot to use to pass, the details of the pass - it's a joy to watch. He's really incredible," Rooney said in the latest episode of The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport.
Not without reason, Rooney said that Rice would lead the Three Lions forward. He saw how the ability in the game and leadership on the field were qualified by the midfielder.
"He split the centre-back, took the ball from the centre-back (Arsenal), acted as a third centre-back, then the next minute he was in the penalty area, trying to score. Sometimes, some of the things he does are a bit underrated."
"He is the right man to replace (Kane) in my opinion because of his spirit and personality. Everyone who knows him, who is close to him, seems to like him. He is irreplaceable for England," said the former Manchester United star.
Declan Rice has so far appeared in 24 matches in all competitions this season, scoring two goals and six assists.
His fitness is quite good because he rarely gets injured. Last season, he appeared in 52 Arsenal matches, scoring nine goals, and collecting 10 assists.
In his first season at Arsenal, 2023/2024, the 26-year-old played in 51 matches, scoring seven goals and 10 assists.
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