England captain Wayne Rooney has talked up his big chance to be the first Englishman to pass the 50-goal mark in international football.
Rooney, who scored the winner against Slovenia in England’s Euro 2016 qualifier on Sunday, equalled Gary Lineker’s 48 goals for his country and is edging towards surpassing the national record of 49, set by Sir Bobby Charlton 45 years ago.
The Manchester United captain would, in the process, become the first Englishman to score 50 international goals. He has expressed pride at his current achievement.
"I am proud to be within a goal of equalling Sir Bobby's record. It is something I will look back on at the end of my career and be extremely proud of", Rooney was quoted as saying by BT Sport.
With age on Rooney’s side, he is almost certain to break the long-standing record of the Manchester United legend. The 29-year-old is surprised that Charlton’s record stood for so long, but remains confident of breaking it.
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"It's stood for 45 years. Many players have had a go and tried to do and not done it. To be within a goal, at 29 with a few good years in me, I'm sure it will happen.”
Lineker was the last player to go close, but missed his chance to go level with Charlton when he famously missed a penalty in a pre-season friendly against Brazil back in 1992. Rooney, however, has remained calm over his opportunity.
"If I was in my last year or six months, I'd be more edgy, but I'm not concerned. I'm sure it will happen at some stage."
England are top of Group E in the Euro 2016 qualifiers with a perfect record, and play their remaining matches against San Marino, Switzerland, Estonia and Lithuania. Rooney will be expected to reach his milestone during the qualifers.
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