Rooney backs ‘irreplaceable’ Rice to become next England captain

Former England captain Wayne Rooney believes Declan Rice is the “right one” to take over the role from Harry Kane when the striker calls time on his international career.

Rooney was in attendance at Hill Dickinson Stadium when Rice’s Arsenal defeated Everton 1-0, and the midfielder was in top form for the Gunners.

He recorded the most touches (116), accurate passes (87), possessions won (10) and the interceptions (three) for his side, while also winning seven of his nine duels and two of his three tackles.

The 26-year-old has recorded seven direct goal involvements in all competitions this season (two goals, five assists) as Arsenal lead the way in both the Premier League and the Champions League.

Rice has previously captained England twice in his 72 caps at senior international level, leading the Three Lions to a 2-2 draw against Belgium in March 2024 and 3-0 win over Wales in October this year.

Declan Rice. pic.twitter.com/tUgjVGW73h

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 21, 2025

Rooney praised Rice’s performance against the Toffees and tipped him to eventually inherit the armband from Kane.

“For me, he’s the one who’s probably waiting for Harry to hang up his boots at some point,” said Rooney on BBC Sport’s The Wayne Rooney Show.

“He was all over the pitch [against Everton]. His decision-making – when to pass it, where to pass it, what foot to pass it to, his detail on his pass – it was a pleasure to watch. He was absolutely incredible.

“He was splitting centre-backs, taking the ball off [Arsenal’s] centre-backs, acting as a third centre-back, then next minute he’s in the box, trying to score a goal. Sometimes, some of the stuff he does is a bit underrated.

“He’s the right one to take over [Kane] for me, because [of] his drive, his personality. Everyone seems to love him, who knows him, who’s close to him. He’s irreplaceable for England.”