‘Rooney can’t play for England if he’s not in Man United team’

Matt Stead

Wayne Rooney should not start for England unless he is part of Manchester United’s starting XI, according to Paul Parker.

England captain failed to impress once more in the 2-0 victory over Malta, being shown up in midfield by Jordan Henderson.

And former United and England defender Parker has become one of the first ex-pros to question Rooney’s place in Gareth Southgate’s side.

“He’s been a starter for Manchester United when he shouldn’t have been,” said Parker on BBC radio.

“It has changed now. When I was playing, under Bobby Robson, if you weren’t playing for your club you wouldn’t play for your country.

He added: “If we’re going on form, Wayne shouldn’t be playing.”