Wayne Rooney has been named England captain for Friday’s World Cup qualifier with San Marino.

England boss Roy Hodgson has given the armband to Rooney with regular skipper Steven Gerrard missing the visit of San Marino through suspension.

Gerrard’s obvious replacement Frank Lampard has also been forced to miss the game at Wembley after failing to shake off a knee injury.

Joe Hart, who had also been mentioned as a possible contender for the captaincy, backed Rooney for the role earlier this week saying the Manchester United man was the ideal candidate to take the armband.

It means it will be the first time Rooney, who has won 76 caps for his country, will lead out his team for a competitive game as captain.

Gerrard will take the armband for next week’s qualifier with Poland after serving his ban against San