Fabio Capello believes Wayne Rooney is deserving of a spot on England’s euro 2016 squad.
Rooney was instrumental in helping England qualify for the continental competition, but just returned from injury and is battling for fitness.
However Capello who was in charge of England between 2008 and 2012 – believes Rooney is still worthy of a spot in Hodgson’s 23-man squad for the Euros in France.
“He is important because it’s important to have him on the pitch because he understands the game well and he sets an example for the other players,” the Italian said. “This is a very important role he can play.”
Considering Kane and Vardy’s form this season, Capello believes Rooney should play more of a playmaker role behind both men instead.
“He is changing,” he said. “He will play not like a first forward, he will be like a second forward and his movement between the line of the defenders is important and he knows that movement really well.
But Capello’s main concern for England is the lack of quality defenders at Roy Hodgson’s disposal, not who will fill his striking department.
“The problem for England is not the forwards. You’ve got a lot of centre-forwards – you need to decide which one you need to stay home,” he continued.
“The problem is with the defence, the lack of centre-backs.”
