Is Rice the Future Captain of England? Rooney Thinks So!

Former England striker Wayne Rooney has endorsed Declan Rice as a potential future captain of the England national team following the midfielder's impressive performance in Arsenal's recent victory over Everton. Rooney's praise highlights Rice's significant contributions on the pitch, establishing him as a key figure for the Three Lions.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As Arsenal celebrated a narrow 1-0 win against Everton, Wayne Rooney was on hand to witness Declan Rice's pivotal role in the match. This performance has led Rooney to believe that Rice is poised to take over the captaincy from Harry Kane in the future. The former England captain praised Rice's decision-making and versatility, suggesting that the 26-year-old's leadership qualities make him an ideal candidate for the role.

Key takeaways

• Wayne Rooney sees Declan Rice as a future England captain.
• Rice's performance against Everton showcased his all-round skills.
• Rooney also highlighted the resurgence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin at Leeds United.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey towards Declan Rice being viewed as a captaincy candidate has evolved over several years:

• March 2024: Rice captains England in a 2-2 draw against Belgium.
• October 2024: He leads the team in a 3-0 victory over Wales.
• October 2023: Rice plays a crucial role in Arsenal's win against Everton.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Wayne Rooney's recent comments on BBC Sport highlight a growing belief in Rice’s leadership capabilities. His performance against Everton further solidifies his reputation as a central figure in both club and national team contexts.

What was already established

Declan Rice has long been recognised for his talent and versatility on the pitch. His experience at the international level, along with previous captaincy opportunities, has paved the way for this discussion about future leadership roles.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The ongoing success of players like Rice may uplift the spirits of fans and households across the UK, providing a sense of pride and connection to the national team. As the England squad gears up for major tournaments, the leadership dynamics will likely influence public interest and support.

Businesses and jobs

The performance of prominent players can have economic implications, potentially boosting merchandise sales and associated businesses. Clubs investing in talent like Rice can also impact job opportunities within the sporting sector.

Policy and regulation

As discussions about player leadership evolve, the FA may consider how leadership roles are developed within youth academies, ensuring that future generations of players are equipped with the skills needed for captaincy.

Numbers that matter

• 72: The number of caps Declan Rice has earned with the senior England squad.
• 1: The scoreline of Arsenal's recent match against Everton, highlighting Rice's contribution.
• 5: The number of consecutive matches Dominic Calvert-Lewin has scored in for Leeds.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Caps: Appearances made by a player in international matches.
• Captaincy: The position of being the leader of a sports team.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should watch for Declan Rice's continued performance in upcoming matches, as his role may further evolve with the England squad.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Anticipate potential discussions within the Football Association regarding leadership roles, especially leading up to major tournaments.

Signals to watch

• Upcoming England fixtures and Rice's role in those matches.
• Media coverage on leadership dynamics within the squad.

Practical guidance

Do

• Follow Declan Rice's performances closely in both the Premier League and international fixtures.
• Stay informed about developments regarding the England national team and potential captaincy changes.

Don’t

• Dismiss the importance of leadership within the squad as it can significantly impact team performance.
• Overlook the contributions of players like Viktor Gyokeres, who, despite fewer goals, play crucial roles on the pitch.

Checklist

• Monitor Declan Rice's match statistics and performances.
• Keep track of discussions surrounding England's leadership structure.
• Assess the performance of other potential captaincy candidates.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Rooney's endorsement of Rice as a future captain is significant, it is important to consider that team dynamics can shift. Player performance can fluctuate due to various factors, including injuries or changes in coaching staff. Therefore, while the sentiment is strong, the future remains uncertain.

Bottom line

Wayne Rooney's assessment of Declan Rice as a potential future captain reflects the midfielder's evolving role within the England national team. As fans, stakeholders, and analysts observe Rice's growth, the discussions around leadership will likely intensify, impacting the team's performance and morale.

FAQs

Why is Declan Rice considered a future captain for England?

Declan Rice is seen as a future captain due to his leadership qualities, versatility, and significant contributions on the pitch, particularly during key matches.

What did Wayne Rooney say about Dominic Calvert-Lewin?

Wayne Rooney praised Dominic Calvert-Lewin for his recent scoring form and suggested he could be a contender for England's World Cup squad if he continues to perform well.

How many goals has Viktor Gyokeres scored this season?

Viktor Gyokeres has scored seven goals in all competitions this season, highlighting his contributions despite some struggles in form.