Southgate dismisses skipper's critics

GARETH Southgate hates the idea that dropping Wayne Rooney has given critics any satisfaction, saying the England captain still provides "gold dust" to the team.

Even for a player in the spotlight since the age of 16, the intensifying scrutiny of the Manchester United captain over the past few months has been unparalleled.

Rooney's place in the England starting line-up and position within it has been in focus, with interim manager Southgate taking the bold decision to drop him for tonight's World Cup qualifier in Slovenia.

"It is a football decision," Southgate said.

"On a human level it's a very difficult decision because I don't like the idea that there might be an element of satisfaction for some people that he's not in the team.

"I'm probably more annoyed by that than he is.

"He's had to live with that sort of reaction throughout his career.

"I know the implications when you've got a big player, somebody who is a worldwide figure, it has repercussions for him."

Rooney's omission allows Eric Dier to return to the side.

Southgate spoke in great length with Rooney about his decision on Sunday and was impressed by the way the captain has handled matters.

"You can see the pride he has of being involved every day with us," he said.

"I guess it goes back to people not knowing the man and they all have an opinion, but I think they are wide of the mark."