Fabio Capello has given his backing to Wayne Rooney to start for England during Euro 2016.
The Manchester United striker, who recently recovered from a knee injury, may have to fight for his place in the lineup given the strong form of Harry Kane and Jamie Vardy.
However, Capello, who was in charge of England for three years, believes that Rooney should be one of the first names on the teamsheet in France.
"It is important to have him on the pitch because he understands the game well and he sets an example for the other players," The Mirror quotes Capello as saying. "This is a very important role he can play."
England's first group game of Euro 2016 is against Russia on June 11.