The Manchester United star will lead out the Three Lions in the absence of regular skipper Steven Gerrard - who is suspended following his dismissal against Ukraine - and Frank Lampard, who was forced to withdraw from the squad with a thigh injury sustained in Chelsea's victory over Norwich on Saturday.

It is almost three years since Rooney captained his country, with the number 10 wearing the armband most recently in a friendly against Brazil in Doha in November 2009 - a match they lost 1-0.

He is yet to score for United this Premier League season but has been widely praised for his performances since returning from a gashed leg sustained against Fulham, having a hand in two goals in United's 3-0 away win over Newcastle on Sunday.