An emotional Wayne Rooney became England’s all-time leading
goal-scorer after netting his 50th international goal in a historic 2-0
victory over Switzerland at Wembley in a Euro 2016 qualifier on
Tuesday. With England having already qualified for next year’s
tournament, the stage was set for their captain to surpass Bobby
Charlton’s 45-year-old mark of 49, which he had equalled in
Saturday’s 6-0 win in San Marino. After substitute Harry Kane
broke the deadlock, the moment duly arrived in the 84th minute,
Rooney crashing a penalty into Yann Sommer’s top-right corner
and being rewarded with a standing ovation that left him wiping
away tears.
“It’s a great feeling,” said Rooney, 29. “I’ve been close for the
last few games and it’s a dream come true. I was bit emotional. It’s
a huge honour and one I am extremely proud of. “I knew it was a
big moment and just picked my corner and put my foot through it.
To be the record scorer before the age of 30 is nothing I could have
imagined.” Charlton, whose Manchester United record of 249
goals is also being eroded by Rooney, was quick to offer
congratulations. “I would like to congratulate Wayne on becoming
England’s leading goal-scorer,” the 77-year-old, emblem of
England’s 1966 World Cup win, said in a statement. “I obviously
cannot deny that I am disappointed that I now don’t hold this
record, however, I am absolutely delighted that it is Wayne, as
captain of my beloved club and country, who now holds this
record.” England manager Roy Hodgson said: “I’m delighted for
Wayne Rooney and his breaking of the record, and showing such
courage and ability to blast it into the roof of the net. “His maturity
has impressed me, the way he’s accepted the captaincy. He’s still
out there working as hard as the 19- year-old making his way in
the game.” Hodgson revealed that Rooney had been presented with
a commemorative shirt by the Football Association and had made
a short speech to his team-mates after the game. He is to be
presented with a golden boot by Charlton prior to England’s next
game against Estonia at Wembley on October 9. There were also
messages of congratulations from United and Gary Lineker, who
had stood second behind Charlton on 48 goals prior to Rooney’s
goal against San Marino, which also came from the spot.
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