Gareth Southgate has not spoken to Wayne Rooney about his recall to the England squad but said it would be a “strange country” that did not accept he deserved the tribute.

After naming a 28-man squad – including Rooney – the manager claimed there was no one left out to accommodate the 33-year-old’s farewell – which may come as a surprise to some players.

Southgate said he would have no problem if Rooney was given the armband when he came on as a substitute against the United States in the friendly at Wembley next Thursday. “The last game he played with me, when he came on, Jordan Henderson gave him the armband straight away. I have no issue with that at all,” Southgate said.

That last appearance was in Nov 2016, in a World Cup qualifier against Scotland, with Rooney announcing his retirement from international football after refusing a call-up in Aug 2017.

Now, England’s record goalscorer is set to win his 120th and, presumably, final cap. “This is unique because it is a tribute and recognition and not a selection,” Southgate said as he put up a robust defence. However, the fact that he has not spoken directly to Rooney reinforces the fact that the recall was not the manager’s idea.