Rooney: I never take my England place for granted
Wayne Rooney believes the competition for places in the England squad is "exciting," and assured supporters he's going to do all he can to be ready for Euro 2016.
Speaking for the first time as a television pundit, Rooney addressed questions Tuesday about his role in this summer's tournament. He is currently on the sidelines because of a knee injury, but England's record goal-scorer isn't too concerned by an abundance of players vying for the same forward position.
"As I've said throughout my career, I never take my place for granted. It's great the competition is there. It's exciting, I'm excited to be a part of it," the Manchester United striker said on ITV. "I'm going to keep going and get ready."
Leicester City standout Jamie Vardy and Tottenham hitman Harry Kane look like the clear front-runners for the Three Lions, having scored 40 Premier League goals between them this season. Rooney is on course to return to action on April 16 against Aston Villa, leaving him with little time to change minds.
But the 30-year-old believes his experience as captain is vital to a younger England side.
"I don't think I'm fighting for my place," he said. "There are so many of them who haven't been to a tournament. I think you can get away with one player like that, but it's important the likes of myself and Joe Hart make them comfortable on the pitch."
Roy Hodgson selected a relatively fresh starting lineup against Germany on Saturday, with just 161 international appearances between the XI.