Heart-Warming Moment! Wayne Rooney Breaks Down In Tears

Rooney’s 120th and final cap amounted to a 32-minute cameo, and a shot with virtually his last touch which Brad Guzan did well to save, as the nation’s record goalscorer bowed out after a glittering 15-year career at this level. “It went as I imagined it, really,” he said.

“It’s been great the last few days, to see how they’re working and improving. It’s great the Football Association are celebrating players who have left a mark on international football in England. It’s the right thing to do and I’m sure it will happen again.

“Before playing the game I asked Harry Kane to present me with the award because I believe he will beat my goalscoring record and I look forward to presenting him with the trophy. It was a special day for me and my family.”

Southgate said: “It’s difficult, even as a senior player, to walk back into a dressing room where there are new staff and a lot of players he hadn’t played with, but he’s been brilliant.

“The time he’s giving to all the players, the little conversations with some of the younger ones … he spoke about what playing for England had meant to him, and what it should mean to the three debutants. Then there was the humility he showed in training, tracking back in the five-a-sides as if his life depended on it.

For all the mixed opinions evoked by the Football Association’s decision to give Rooney a sentimental final run-out for his 120th cap, there appeared no doubt in the minds of the Wembley crowd that this was a worthwhile exercise.

When the former England captain appeared before kick-off with his four children through a guard of honour formed by both teams to receive a presentation from FA chairman Greg Clarke and Harry Kane, it was the start of a genuine show of affection.

And Rooney beamed in appreciation as he warmed up near the touchline when Liverpool youngster Alexander-Arnold – another Merseysider – drilled in his first England goal.

The DC United striker was given a standing ovation when the big moment arrived, and he came on for Lingard for that final 33-minute appearance.

Rooney, who has excelled in Major League Soccer, looked trim and fit as the crowd cheered his every move, willing him to produce one more special England moment.

He almost delivered the dream finale in stoppage time when only the outstretched right arm of Guzan stopped him adding a 54th goal to his all-time England record. And, agonisingly, he was just unable to stretch enough to meet a cross six yards out seconds later.

Rooney took the acclaim of the crowd at the final whistle as the curtain came down on his England career.