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Jordan Henderson backs new England skipper Wayne Rooney

England's Jordan Henderson attends a press conference at the Grove Hotel in Watford
Image: Jordan Henderson: At Monday's press conference

Newly-installed England skipper Wayne Rooney is ‘a natural leader’, according to midfielder Jordan Henderson.

The Liverpool player has backed the Manchester United striker to be a great captain as he replaces Steven Gerrard, who retired from the international game following the World Cup.

England manager Roy Hodgson named Rooney as his captain and Henderson said: "I think Wayne was the ideal choice.

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"He is a natural leader in the dressing room and also on the field as well.

“I think it was a really good appointment and I don't think it'll change the way he is.

"He will keep doing everything he always does, he gives 100 per cent whether in training or in matches.

"He will help the younger lads and I am sure he will have a lot of respect in the dressing room."

Image: Rooney: New England captain backed by Henderson

With England currently preparing to face Norway at Wembley in a friendly on Wednesday, Rooney is the only member of the 22-man squad with more than 50 senior caps to his name.

As for the national team going forward, Henderson added: "This is the first time the group has been together since the World Cup.

“We've got to deal with it and put it to bed now and move on and look towards the future.

"We felt as though there were some positives out of the games we did play. Obviously, overall, it was very disappointing because we came home far too early.”

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