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Rooney backed to become England captain

Wayne Rooney has 95 caps for England © Getty Images

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Former England international Bryan Robson believes Wayne Rooney is ready to replace Steven Gerrard as captain.

Gerrard announced his retirement from England duty after a 14-year international career on Monday, having led the team 38 times. He has left the scene as the country's third most capped player of all time behind Peter Shilton and David Beckham.

Replacing him will be a tough task for manager Roy Hodgson but Robson, who represented England 90 times, believes Rooney is an obvious choice.

Hart 5/1 to trump Rooney

Joe Hart could be given the role as he has 43 caps © PA Photos

• Even though Wayne Rooney is the odds-on favourite to become the next England captain, manager Roy Hodgson may decide to overlook the striker and hand the armband to goalkeeper Joe Hart instead.
• Click here to view all the latest odds with William Hill

"Wayne has captained Manchester United and England. He knows what it's about," Robson told the BBC. "Wayne has proved he is our best player. He leads by example.

"He works really hard for the team. No matter what position the coach wants him to play, Wayne wants you to do the job. That is a good sign for a captain. If it was Wayne I would have no doubts about him being captain."

Gerrard has offered to advise Hodgson on who should replace him as England captain and sources close to the 34 year old claim he wants Rooney to get the armband, according to The Sun.

The Liverpool captain said: "I'm here for advice on the next England captain. I'm sure Roy will give it to the right person and I hope they show it the same respect that I have.

"I'm sure Roy will help make the England supporters proud again. He's a fantastic manager and I'm glad The FA have stuck with him."

Gerrard, who has been given an ambassadorial role with the FA, has started taking his coaching badges, but he is unsure whether he wants to go into coaching or management when he hangs his boots up for good.

Gary Neville made the transition from player to England coach a year after he retired from the game and there could be scope for Gerrard to do the same.

"My relationship with The FA will continue moving forward and I'm sure over the next 20, 30, 40 years, I will work for England again," Gerrard added.

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