Wayne Rooney: England captain confident in his own skill after Russians question whether he is the same player ahead of Euro 2016 opener

ENGLAND captain Wayne Rooney offered a bullish defence of his qualities after facing questions in a press conference. 

A Russian journalist suggested that players in the Russian camp – as well as the coaches – do not see Rooney as the player was at his peak.

Rooney is not likely to play as the main striker for the Three Lions and will instead start in a more withdrawn role – he has been playing in midfield for Manchester United at the end of the season.

Rooney was asked how he felt about members of the Russian camp not seeing him as the same player.

The England captain answered: “Everyone who watches football is entitled to their opinion.

“I know the qualities I have.

“I don’t have to sit here and defend myself.

“I’m aware that my game has changed over the years – in my opinion it has changed for the better.

“As I said, everyone is entitled to their opinion, but the only one that matters to me is that of my team-mates and coaches.”

England boss Roy Hodgson revealed that he has so far left his players in the dark – and will name the starting XI at a team meeting on Saturday morning.

Rooney added that he and the rest of the squad were “excited” by the tournament starting.

He said: “We’re just looking forward to it.

“The preparation has been perfect, we’ve had no injuries, which is important, we’re ready and excited.”

Rooney is easily the most experienced player in a squad that has just four players aged 30 and only three players with more than 50 caps.

Rooney will be playing in his fifth major tournament and imparted some wisdom on the youngsters.

The one quality the England squad will need most is “resilience”.

He added: “We know how important the first game is, it cost us two years ago.

“We have to get off to good start.

“We’ve spoken about that as players and we’re ready.

“There’s a buzz around the place, everyone is excited for the game.

“It’s important to take the performance levels [from training and warm-up games] into the Russia game.”

And what one bit of advice would he give to the young Lions?

“Enjoy it.”

For the latest Euro 2016 news go here: https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/euro-2016/