Though the International break is usually one that is dreaded by many of our regular punters here in the Transfer Tavern, many are excited to see England go toe-to-toe with some of Europe’s finest, as the Three Lions prepare to take on Spain and France.
Indeed, it is the first time in a while England fans could feel a bit optimistic about the potential of their side. Roy Hodgson has slowly but surely built a strong outfit, which appears to have the correct blend of youth and experience.
While the likes of Delli Alli, Jamie Vardy and Eric Dier will all look to make their own mark in an England Jersey, the regulars such as James Milner, Joe Hart and of course captain Wayne Rooney continue to provide experienced heads both in the dressing room and on the pitch.
With Wayne Rooney recently turning thirty, the punters here began to discuss who could take over from England’s all time record scorer as the captain of the side.
Click Rooney below to see FIVE potential successors to his England captain role
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Chris Smalling
Many punters in the Transfer Tavern cannot believe the turnaround Chris Smalling has experienced this season, where he has arguably been the best centre back in the League so far.
Smalling has not only put in very mature performances, but has noticeably shown a lot of leadership in the way that he superbly organises the back four. Louis Van Gaal has touted Smalling as a future captain of the Red Devils, and there is no reason as to why he couldn’t captain his country either.
John Stones
Another highly rated English centre-half, John Stones continues to impress in and Everton shirt, and it appears his best decision was to resist a tempting move to Chelsea in the summer, in order to continue his development at Goodison Park.
Like Smalling, Stones is also very composed and mature in his play, and with a few more tweaks, he could become a top centre half with potential to be a great leader.
Joe Hart
Hart is only 28, which is a relatively young age for a goalkeeper. The Man City stopper does not look like he will lose his England place any time soon, and is only going to get better with age.
He is a highly respected member of the squad, and even though he is in goal is not afraid to put his point across. Though a goalkeeping captain isn’t the most common these days, Hart would still be a fine choice to take the armband.
Harry Kane
Kane looks destined for great things in an England top, and with his excellent displays for Spurs, could soon become a leader for his side to.
He is currently the third choice captain for the North London club, and if he shows greater leadership skills with age, could again be a fine choice as captain.
Jordan Henderson
Henderson looks the most likely to take the armband off Rooney next. The Liverpool captain has vast experience as a skipper, having also skippered the under 21s and Sunderland previously.
Henderson always puts in 100 per cent in the centre of the pack, and should be a consistent member in the squad for a few years yet.
