Rooney marked for captain's role at United

Wayne Rooney has been earmarked as a future Manchester United captain by Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

Wayne Rooney has been earmarked as a future Manchester United captain by Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

Veteran full-back Gary Neville was handed the skipper's armband by Ferguson following the recent departure of Roy Keane.

But Ferguson believes it is only a matter of time before 20-year-old England striker Rooney gets his chance to lead the Red Devils.

"I decided to go with seniority this time, but I think we have a potential captain in Wayne Rooney," Ferguson told the Sunday Mirror.

"I think there are indications there that he has the mental toughness, respect and the winning mentality that Manchester United captains need to have."

PA

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