Wayne Rooney breaks all-time England scoring record with 50th international goal

Among his compatriots, Wayne Rooney has no equals.

The embattled striker, derided in his own country for much of his international career, established himself as the greatest goalscorer in English history on Tuesday, finding the net against Switzerland to bring his tally to 50 goals with the Three Lions - a total that surpasses the previous mark set by iconic midfielder Sir Bobby Charlton.

Related: Wayne Rooney equals Sir Bobby Charlton's scoring record with 49th goal for England

Rooney, 29, scored the record-breaking goal in the 84th minute of the match at Wembley, stepping up to the penalty spot - after a contentious decision - and sending a piledriver of a strike off the fingertips of the goalkeeper and into the roof of the net.

The thunderous goal, the seventh of Rooney's Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, saw the Manchester United striker walk back towards the centre circle with tears in his eyes, no doubt aware of the momentous occasion - one which came 12 years after he scored his first goal for his country.

"It's a great feeling," Rooney said after the match. "I've been close for the last few games and it's a dream come true. I was bit emotional, it's a huge honour and one I am extremely proud of. I knew it was a big moment and just picked my corner and put my foot through it. To be the record scorer before the age of 30 is nothing I could have imagined."

It also secured a 2-0 win for the Three Lions, who will cruise into next summer's tournament as Group E victors.

But there will be plenty of time to focus on Roy Hodgson's side and its chances of tasting glory in France. This day belongs to Rooney, who, for all the criticism he faces and the prevailing feeling that he never delivered on the potential shown as a teenager, will undoubtedly go down as one of the greatest players in his nation's history.

"I would like to congratulate Wayne on becoming England's leading goalscorer," Charlton said. "I have always been very proud to hold this record. Playing for my country was always an honour and a privilege and something I did with great pride. I obviously cannot deny that I am disappointed that I now don't hold this record, however, I am absolutely delighted that it is Wayne, as captain of my beloved club and country, who now holds this record."

At only 29 years old, there's plenty of time for Rooney to ensure that he isn't surpassed atop the England scoring chart for many years to come.