Wayne Rooney: Stepped Up to Success, Retired a Legend

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“Playing for England has always been special to me. Every time I was selected as a player or captain it was a real privilege and I thank everyone who helped me”, said Wayne Rooney in his official statement from his website, who retired from the England national team on the 23rd August 2017, leaving a record of 53 goals in 119 appearances - more than any outfield player.

After retiring, Rooney decided to go back to his boyhood club Everton in the off-season. England coach Gareth Southgate approach Rooney about returning for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers but it was a tough decision for him after discussing it with his family & team manager Ronnie Koeman.

Wayne Rooneý’s England career spanned 14 years and while his achievements were outstanding, he also acknowledged the disappointments at recent performances in major competitions. Rooney had never levelled to the quarterfinals stage of a tournament with England and it was disappointing for him as a captain.

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That leaves Rooney out of the question when it comes to the World Cup next June in 2018. Moreover, despite his achievements in the England run, he accepted that he could not be fully satisfied given the team’s tournament performances ever since he made his debut at 17-year-old in February 2003.

As of October 2016, he has scored 53 goals in 117 international appearances, making him England's all-time top scorer and surpassing Bobby Charlton's record with a penalty against Switzerland at Wembley Stadium during UEFA Euro 2016 qualification.

He bid his career goodbye and said that “One day the dream will come true and I look forward to being there as a fan – or in any capacity.”