England coach Roy Hodgson says Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney remains a first-choice for him.

Rooney wants to quit United this summer.

Hodgson names his 22-man squad for the end-of-season friendlies with Republic of Ireland and Brazil today.

And he is considering handing Rooney the captain's armband in one of those games.

Hodgson called the player this week.

And he said: "I was concerned because his wife is having a baby not long before we meet up.

"But he was at great pains to assure me that he was really looking forward to playing for England and that it's something that's top of his agenda. I've no reason to doubt that and no reason to doubt him.

"I'm looking forward to working with him. But I'm staying out of any debate when it comes to Wayne Rooney and club football.

"It's a matter for Wayne and United and I'm sure they will get it sorted and that it won't affect me.

"For me, it's what he does for England and how he's going to perform in these next two matches."