RIO FERDINAND is backing his former Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney to be the next England captain.
With Steven Gerrard now retired from international football Roy Hodgson has yet to announce the Liverpool star's successor as skipper.
Joe Hart and Gary Cahill are expected to be considered but Ferdinand believes Rooney, who has 95 caps, is the right man for the job.
"I think Wayne is growing into that role," said Ferdinand, who captained England for 13 months from February 2010.
"He's experienced now, he has played at the top level and has won a lot of things. Wayne knows the game. He has the right tools for that job."
Rooney, 28, has scored 40 goals for England but was criticised for his poor displays at the World Cup in Brazil.
Ferdinand said: "With other countries it's usually the guy with the most caps or most influence who is the captain. I think Wayne is the most influential player England have now that Steven has gone."
Ferdinand, 35, retired from international football last year and joined QPR this summer.He insisted the decision has prolonged his career and says Gerrard will also benefit.
He said: "Steven will be able to play on at a high level for an extra two or three years. That's what happens when you can get a break at certain times."
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