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​Man Utd legend Rooney to manage England in SoccerAid at Old Trafford

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney is set to captain England for a Soccer Aid friendly.

The ex-Red Devils striker, now with Derby County, will manage the Three Lions for Unicef at a game that will take place at Old Trafford, Manchester in the autumn.

Rooney will have co-manager Sam Allardyce by his side, while David Seaman will be goalkeeping coach. England will face a World XI in the game.

"Taking part in Soccer Aid for Unicef is something I have wanted to do for many years," Rooney said after the announcement.

"Previously, I have never been able to make the dates work, but this year was obviously different. I was enormously proud to be asked to manage the England team and although there will be no fans at the match, it is always special to go back to Old Trafford.

"Simply, representing your country is always a huge honour – and this game is no different. I'm looking forward to working with Sam and David. Yes, the players and I want to win the match but the real victory is helping to raise millions of pounds for Unicef. This year, every £1 donated is automatically trebled thanks to the UK Government and Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, so I would ask people to donate if they can.

"I'd like to thank Derby County Football Club for giving me special dispensation to take part in the match. Soccer Aid for Unicef is a show that we've always tried to watch as a family over the years. The names taking part this year will make it one of the most exciting to-date, so I hope everyone at home tunes in."

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Freddie Taylor

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