Wayne Rooney lacks the physicality and nous to play in midfield for England, says Tony Cascarino

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Sam Long10 October 2016

England captain Wayne Rooney lacks the physicality and nous to play in midfield, according to Tony Cascarino.

Rooney's role in Gareth Southgate's side has dominated the agenda in the wake of England's 2-0 victory over Malta, during which the 30-year-old was booed by sections of the Wembley crowd.

Rooney made his name as a striker but has increasingly been deployed in a central midfield role for the Three Lions, freeing up room for Dele Alli to play at number 10.

But question marks remain over whether Rooney is suited to a deeper role, with reports emerging that he is set to be dropped for tomorrow's 2018 World Cup qualifier against Slovenia.

And Cascarino is adamant Rooney's attributes mean the Manchester United skipper will be unable to convert himself into a fully-fledged midfielder.

"It's always tough for players to switch position," Cascarino told the Times. "There are two major factors that mean Rooney can't be a midfielder.

"Game intelligence is vital and while Rooney is a clever player, I don't think he has the nous.

"But physicality is the area where Rooney really falls short. He is often caught out of position and doesn't have the pace he used to when it comes to tracking back.

"Football these days is about defending from the front and Rooney just isn't athletic enough to fulfil that duty," he insisted.

Rooney has served England with distinction throughout the course of his career but Cascarino believes the nation's captain has become dispensable and no longer merits a place in the side - regardless of his position.

"Jordan Henderson played very well [against Malta] and only highlighted Rooney's shortcomings.

"Rooney is an out-of-form number 10 and Alli is better in that role. Wherever he plays, for club and country, there is a better option than Rooney."

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