Harry Redknapp has declared that Wayne Rooney remains England's only world-class striker following last night's stroll against San Marino.

Rooney curled home a free kick in the 8-0 victory as England built towards Tuesday's crucial World Cup qualifier against Montenegro.

Redknapp believes that Rooney deserves to be considered as an automatic starter for the Three Lions despite competition from Jermain Defoe, Danny Welbeck and Daniel Strurridge.

He told The Sun: "Rooney is a top, top player. He never lost it. A player like him never does.

"He took his goal well last night and made a couple of chances for his teammates. I have said for a long time that he has been our one truly world-class striker.

"He was left on the bench for one Manchester United game recently, by the manager for tactical reasons and then he is written off? No chance."

Rooney, Defoe and Sturridge were all on target against San Marino to give Roy Hodgson a selection headache for the Montenegro match.

Written by
Liam Power