Wayne Rooney has no intention of ending his international career and helping England at the 2018 World Cup – should the country qualify.
England’s record goalscorer ended his international career in August after falling out of favour with Gareth Southgate due to a lack of playing time at Manchester United.
Two goals in his first two games for Everton this season had led to calls for a recall, but Rooney resigned before Southgate named his squad for the games against Malta and Slovakia.
“I’ve made up my mind,” said Rooney, who was charged with drunk driving on Friday, talkSPORT“I have seen a few times where players came out of retirement and went to tournaments – and that is not right.
“The guys who are trying to qualify for Russia are the players who deserve to be in the tournament. So my decision is final.”
“I’ve had my time. I have no regrets. Now it’s time for some of the younger guys to step up and try to go even further.
“Of course I will be watching. I have made it clear throughout my career that I love playing for England and that I want England to do well – and that will continue to be the case.”
“I won’t be playing, but I’ll be watching with the same interest as everyone else. Hopefully we can take the next step in the tournament.”
