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Wayne Rooney shocked by booing - but remains committed to England

Wayne Rooney lined up in midfield once again against Malta
Image: Wayne Rooney lined up in midfield once again against Malta

England captain Wayne Rooney has told friends he was "shocked and disappointed" to be booed by fans during Saturday's 2-0 victory over Malta, according to Sky sources.

However, the 30-year-old says he remains absolutely committed to the England side until the end of their participation in the 2018 World Cup.

Ahead of Saturday's World Cup qualification win there was some jeering of Rooney's name when the England team was announced, and further boos greeted a late mis-hit shot on goal.

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Interim boss Gareth Southgate defended Rooney after the match, saying: "I don't understand [the booing] but that seems to be the landscape.

"I have no idea how that is expected to help him, for sure."

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Highlights of England's 2-0 win over Malta in Group F of the World Cup Qualifiers

Rooney is England's all-time record goalscorer but was used in a deeper role at Euro 2016, and also by Sam Allardyce in his one game in charge.

'Rooney must play up front'
'Rooney must play up front'

Pundits have their say on England skipper

And the Manchester United man was once again deployed in midfield for Southgate's first game at the helm on Saturday.

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Gareth Southgate
Image: Gareth Southgate got off to a winning start as interim England boss

Southgate says he was pleased with Rooney's performance against Malta but insisted when pressed that he would not be afraid to drop the captain if he felt it was the right decision. 

"I've got to make decisions which are right for the team," said Southgate.

"Whenever you select a team, with England, you're going to leave some guys on the bench that are playing every week in the Premier League for their club."

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