ESPN

Rooney disagrees with Gerrard's England take

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Wayne Rooney has recently responded to comments made by his former teammate, Steven Gerrard, regarding England's "Golden Generation." Gerrard had termed this group as "egotistical losers," which Rooney strongly disagrees with. Rooney emphasized that the Golden Generation was a talented squad that included notable players like David Beckham, Paul Scholes, and Gerrard himself. He believes that their international performance was not solely due to ego but rather a combination of factors, including the high expectations placed on them and the challenges of club rivalries. Rooney reflected on the team's dynamics during their playing days, highlighting how club rivalries often overshadowed their ability to form strong relationships with each other. He noted that it's easier for players to maintain friendships now that they are no longer competing against each other. Despite the challenges, Rooney asserted that the Golden Generation was not defined by ego but by their passionate efforts to succeed on the international stage. In his response, Rooney also touched upon his post-playing career, discussing his transition to coaching and the difficulties he faced, including feeling lost after leaving management roles. He shared insights into his experiences with different England managers and the lessons he learned from those encounters. Overall, Rooney's defense of the Golden Generation emphasizes their dedication and commitment to representing England, rather than any perceived egoistic traits.