Players did not lose faith in Hodgson at Euro 2016, says Rooney

Chantilly (France) (AFP) – England captain Wayne Rooney has rubbished reports that senior players called into question Roy Hodgson’s management before their Euro 2016 humbling at the hands of Iceland on Monday.

“In response to recent media reports, I’d like to say that (the reports are) completely untrue,” Rooney said in a statement released to Britain’s Press Association. 

“On behalf of the players, we completely supported the England manager but understand his reasons for stepping down. We had absolute faith in the build up and throughout the tournament.”

Rooney’s statement came after British media reports that senior players in the squad were surprised by Hodgson’s choice of formation at the tournament and some of his selection decisions.

Hodgson confirmed that he would not be carrying on as England coach immediately after Monday’s humiliating 2-1 reverse in Nice which saw them exit the European Championship in the last 16.