D.C. United forward and international icon Wayne Rooney will play his final match for the English National Team on Thursday, Nov. 15 when England host the USA at Wembley Stadium. The game will mark Rooney’s 120th cap, putting an end to a world-class, record-breaking national team career that spanned 15 years.
At just 17 years old, Rooney became the youngest player to appear for England when he made his debut against Australia on Feb. 12, 2003. Later that year, he became the youngest player to ever score in an England jersey when he notched the equalizer in England's 2-1 victory over Macedonia in the 2004 Euro Qualifiers. Rooney went on to appear in three World Cups and three European Championships for England, scoring 53 goals in the process of becoming England's all-time leading goalscorer.
On Thursday, Rooney will play his final match for England at Wembley Stadium in London—a fitting send off for one of England’s greatest of all-time.
“To play at Wembley for the last time will be a great moment," Rooney said.
It’s been nearly two years since Rooney last suited up for England before announcing his retirement from international football. The tribute match at Wembley will honor Rooney's incredible national team career, and will allow him to reach the 120 cap mark in front of the England faithful. While Rooney is looking forward to seeing old teammates and coaches, he is most excited and grateful to play for the fans one last time.
“It will be great to put on an England shirt again and get in front of the fans,” Rooney said. “It’s almost a way of me saying 'thank you' to the fans for the support they’ve shown me in my time playing for England.”
The match will also feature fundraising initiatives for the Wayne Rooney Foundation, which provides funds to a series of organizations that support disadvantaged children and young people. Tune in to ESPN2 at 3 PM ET on Thursday, Nov. 15 to watch Rooney take the field for the England National Team one final time.
