Gerrard: Rooney remains England's biggest scoring threat for Euro 2016

LA Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard has given his full backing for England teammate Wayne Rooney to star as the Three Lions' key figure in the 2016 European Championship.

Rooney, the captain of both England and Manchester United, has had a rough go of things lately, failing to score consistently as the Red Devils struggled to find the back of the net in December. Meanwhile, some of the other English forwards have thrived, prompting questions about Rooney's spot in the Three Lions' team come June 10 in France.

But Gerrard believes that, when the going gets tough, it's Rooney who England can count on.

"Jamie Vardy is doing well, Harry Kane is doing well but in a big game who is England's best chance of scoring?" Gerrard told the Daily Mail, as reported by ESPN FC. "Does anyone think it is not Wayne Rooney in this room? If there is a penalty in the last 10 minutes to progress out of a group or into a quarterfinal who would you want to take it?

"Who does everyone in the dressing room at Manchester United and England look to for inspiration? Who are they all hiding behind pressure wise when it isn't going well? Wayne Rooney does more than just score goals, he has an impact on the whole team and squad."

It's a warm sentiment from a man who, for a long time, was England's most prominent player in midfield. But for Rooney, Gerrard's kind words won't be enough to secure a spot, should his poor form roll over into the summer.

Gerrard acknowledged as much, but believes England fans must support Rooney, too.

"He has said he is not in the best form of his life but people need to support him and help get into better form for England and United," Gerrard said. "The easiest thing to do is point fingers and say 'get him out' - I've been there when you are under a bit of pressure and everyone is having a go.

"No one wants to turn that round more than you do but you need help. I'm not saying nobody should criticise him, but let's analyse it properly. He hasn't lost ability. And he's probably the only person capable or proven to get the goals you need to progress in a tournament."