Former Manchester United and England striker, Wayne Rooney, says today’s defenders are not at the level of those he faced during his playing career.
Speaking on the latest edition of the BBC podcast The Wayne Rooney Show, the 39-year-old reflected on his 19-year senior career and the difference he sees in the current crop of centre-backs.
“In this current age, the centre-backs are nowhere near as good as the ones I played against,” Rooney said.
The former United forward highlighted Arsenal’s William Saliba and Gabriel as the standout pair in the Premier League at the moment.
“Saliba and Gabriel complement each other really well. You can see them leading and talking, that is what you need, you need talkers and leaders as centre-backs.
“Would I put them at the same level as players I have played against? No I wouldn’t. But they are possibly the best pairing in this day,” he said.
Rooney also noted the importance of Arsenal securing Saliba on a new deal, saying it could influence future transfer decisions.
“That helps with maybe other players following suit and players coming in in January and next summer.
“When you know there is stability, that helps everyone out,” he said.
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