England's record scorer Wayne Rooney relieved after 'unforgettable night'
Wednesday 9 September 2015 06:37, UK
Wayne Rooney hailed an "unforgettable" night at Wembley after becoming England's all-time record goalscorer, and admits he is relieved to finally get past Sir Bobby Charlton's long-standing achievement.
The England skipper blasted home his 84th-minute penalty against Switzerland to score the hosts' second goal in a 2-0 European Qualifiers victory at Wembley on Tuesday night.
It took him to 50 goals for his country, one more than Charlton's 45-year-old record as the all-time highest scorer for England - and it also sealed top spot in Group E.
Rooney told Sky Sports: "It's incredible, it's a moment which I knew would come and I'm happy it has come tonight. It's a huge honour, huge achievement, and a night I'll never forget.
"As you can probably see, I was a bit emotional after I scored today and you can see how much it means, and I'm just extremely proud.
"I wouldn't put a target on how many goals [I will finish on]. But I'm happy that record has gone now, and I can continue playing for England without having to face questions about that record. Who knows what it will take me to. I try and keep doing well for the team."
When asked what Rooney's favourite England goal was, the Manchester United striker admitted his first, in a 2-1 win in Macedonia at the age of 17 in 2003, and his last one at Wembley on Tuesday night, stood out.
"I think probably my first was a very important goal as a 17-year-old kid, and my last here, two goals which I'll remember for different reasons. Special goals for me, goals which mean a lot.
"All I can do is try to score for England when I play. Obviously it has a bit more importance in a qualifying game or in tournaments, but even in a friendly game, it's a huge honour to score for your country. You can separate them, but they all mean so much."
The 29-year-old is yet to score in the Premier League this season for United, but with Liverpool up next on Saturday Night Football at Old Trafford, Rooney is confident breaking the record will provide him with some much-needed momentum.
"Tonight I'm very happy and grateful, and then tomorrow back in Manchester to focus on Liverpool. Hopefully the last two games getting two goals I can continue scoring.
"To achieve this tonight, I'd be lying if I said it didn't give me a spring in my step and make you want to carry on."
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