Rooney: Kane will beat my England scoring record

The Spurs star will eventually become his nation’s record goalscorer, according to the current record holder

Wayne Rooney has backed England captain Harry Kane to break his record tally of 53 international goals for the nation.

Former Everton and Manchester United forward Rooney came out of international retirement to feature for England against the United States on Thursday, as Gareth Southgate’s side ran out 3-0 winners at Wembley.

Prior to the friendly, which was played in honour of the Wayne Rooney Foundation, Kane and FA chairman Greg Clarke made a presentation to the 33-year-old.

And Rooney hopes that one day, it will be him presenting an award to Kane – who has scored 19 times for his country – for breaking the record goals haul in an England shirt.

“I look forward to presenting him with the trophy,” Rooney told BBC Radio 5 Live.

“I asked Harry to present me with the award because I believe he will beat my goalscoring record.

“It was great to be out there in front of the fans again and it was special for me and my family.”

Rooney, who inspired D.C. United to the MLS play-offs, almost marked his 120th and final cap with a goal, but saw his low strike saved by Brad Guzan.

And while the goal didn’t come Rooney, who has seen his return to the England team criticised from some corners, explained that him scoring a goal would have just opened up a chance at more controversy. 

“If I had scored it would have opened a whole other debate about whether that goal should have counted or not, so it was probably a good thing I didn’t!” he said. 

The outside critics may have made a fuss, but Rooney’s return has been hailed by Southgate and his team-mates, with youngster Jadon Sancho calling the chance to play alongside one of his heroes a “dream come true.”

And Rooney himself ended the night happy with the reception he was given by the team and supporters. 

“Being back at Wembley, in front of the home fans… they gave me a great reception,” said Rooney. “It is a moment to savour. Everyone in the dressing room has enjoyed it.”