Everton fullback Leighton Baines says Wayne Rooney is now one of England's senior leaders.

The duo will be reunited at Old Trafford this afternoon when Baines looks to halt Manchester United's title charge and boost the Toffees' Champions League prospects.

He said: "Wayne is a big character on and off the pitch. You can see he's a real leader by the way he carries himself.

"He's one of the most vocal players in the England squad.

"After we conceded a sloppy goal against Brazil he was the one having a go at us. That's what you always get with Wayne, whether it's Brazil at Wembley or a five-a-side in training.

"And he's absolutely right to do that. I have always believed that in a team you should be able to fall out with each other.

"If you're doing the right things then you get a pat on the back.

"But if you're not, then it's only right if you get dug out by your team-mates.

"Wayne is a great player and over the years he's the one the whole country has come to rely on to produce a goal or a special moment in the big games."