Wednesday 14 October 2015 10:52, UK
Wayne Rooney has captured both England's captaincy and their all-time goalscoring record, but could he now be in danger of losing his place in Roy Hodgson's side?
The Manchester United striker, who will be 30 come next summer's European Championship, watched on as two of England's rising stars helped Roy Hodgson's side wrap up a perfect qualifying campaign, making their respective cases for starting spots at the finals in France.
Harry Kane, 22, led the attack in both of the final two qualifiers, with 21-year-old Ross Barkley impressing from behind the frontline.
In addition, fit-again Daniel Sturridge is regaining his form for Liverpool and Theo Walcott seems to be mastering the centre-forward role at Arsenal.
With Rooney struggling for form domestically, netting just once in the Premier League this season, we asked Charlie Nicholas and Matt Le Tissier whether the Rooney's place is assured for the Euros...
Is Rooney in danger of missing out on a starting spot at the Euros?
Le Tiss: I don't think his place in the squad is in doubt, but his place in the team might well be if he continues with this form for the rest of the season.
I don't expect him to spend the rest of the season as he's started it - which is by not affecting football matches. I've watched him quite a bit over the last few weeks and I just think his level has not quite been there.
The old Rooney used to get you on the edge of your seat, but he's not ambitious enough on the ball, playing too safe for me.
So England's all-time scorer could be left on the bench?
Charlie: I think he's a must-starter, firstly because of the inexperience of the other players there. Rooney's record-breaking scoring contribution and also the fact that that he can play in the No 10 role, in a partnership and in a deeper role, makes him an even bigger asset.
However the draw unfolds for England, I think whoever England get will, if Wayne Rooney isn't in the team, be a happy nation.
In big tournaments experience is key. England are encouraged by the young players that have won 10 out of 10, but has there been any pressure on them? No, there hasn't been.
As much as Theo Walcott has pace and Harry Kane has his strength, Wayne Rooney's knowledge and record emphasise to me that he must start.
Who are his main rivals for a starting spot?
Le Tiss: I'd probably have Rooney central as one of the three guys behind the striker, so Barkley is probably his main competition. He's had a really good start to the season with Everton, showing a bit more consistency and seems to be playing with that fearless ambition that Rooney once had. Sometimes it doesn't always come off but you want to see him try and have a go.
All things equal and with everybody on top form then it is probably Sturridge and Rooney in those central attacking roles, but Kane and Barkley are playing better right now.
So Barkley could keep Rooney out of the team?
Charlie: Barkley has had his plaudits for the last two games, but against who? Come on, I did Everton's first game of the season and after 15-20 minutes the fans were on his back because he was having a really poor game. The persistence of Roberto Martinez to pick Barkley in the No 10 role is working, but predominantly it's better when he's got workers and strength in front of him.
I am a big fan because talent-wise he does have it but he's too selfish and doesn't get his head up quick enough, doesn't see other players quick enough. If you asked me which one is prepared to pick a pass and do more for the team, Rooney would be in front of him, absolutely no doubt about it in my mind.
Could Rooney be passing his peak?
Le Tiss: It's possible that he's past his physical peak, but I guess it's inevitable that there was some sort of dip as he approaches 30. He came on the scene very early and it's a very long time to be operating at the very top of your game.
I don't think it's really age that's affecting his performances though. I'm urging him to shoot more when he gets the ball, but he doesn't seem to have the confidence or bravery to do it now. Maybe he's just mellowed and lost a bit of an edge, perhaps a bit of desire even.
So what does it mean for England?
Charlie: I think the competitive edge is great. I don't know how we'll cover this on Soccer Saturday but I know the four English guys, and I include Jeff Stelling in that, will all have four different lists for the England team because it's chopping and changing. However, I think in Roy and Gary Neville's heads they'll have an idea and Wayne Rooney will be in it.
The thing is that the other players don't have the knowledge on how to get through these tournaments and that's why I stand by Wayne Rooney. He has to be in the set-up because he knows how it all works.
