Wayne Rooney overtakes David Beckham to become England's most capped outfield player

Still going strong: Wayne Rooney
ANTHONY DEVLIN/AFP/Getty Images
Sam Long4 September 2016

Wayne Rooney has become the second most capped England player of all time after starting tonight's 2018 World Cup qualifier against Slovakia.

The 29-year-old, who made his Three Lions debut in 2003, has overtaken David Beckham's tally of 115 in the all-time appearance list.

Rooney is now just nine caps short of equalling Peter Shilton's total of 125 and is on course to break the former goalkeeper's record after announcing his plans to retire after Russia 2018.

However, despite reaching such an important milestone in Trnava, Rooney is adamant the team's success rather than personal glory is of paramount importance.

"I think it is always important and an honour to represent your country," Rooney said on the eve of England's opening 2018 World Cup qualifier.

"To do it the second-most times will be great but tomorrow is about the team, about getting three points.

"I'm sure one day in the future I will look back but for now I'm looking to the game and nothing else, that's it.

"I have said many times that I am a proud person to play for England.

"I have been since the moment I got in the team, my motivation is the same as that day," he added.

Rooney is England's all-time leading goalscorer, having scored 53 goals for the Three Lions.

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