LIVERPOOL/LAHORE – Superstar forward Wayne Rooney has announced his retirement from international football just in time to be eligible for the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) World XI that is scheduled to tour Pakistan next month.
Rooney, who moved back to Everton from Manchester United this summer, says he wants to begin a new international career.
“I think it would’ve been tough for me to get in the England side anyway,” said Rooney while talking to The Dependent. “This way I can continue to be an international athlete, and be a part of the ICC World XI, whenever they’re looking to send a side to a high-risk country.”
However, England’s all-time most capped outfield player who is known for his bravery and a big heart, said that actually taking on the militant groups in Pakistan is what motivated him to take the decision.
He also revealed that Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs, who was in Pakistan last month as part of the Ronaldinho and Friends friendlies, was a major influence.
“Giggsy (Ryan Giggs) told me that taking on militants is the biggest challenge of your professional career,” Rooney told The Dependent. “I mean there are athletes who have won World Cups, Gold Medals, and whatnot, but how many can truly say that they helped defeat terrorism?”