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Man Utd's new England skipper Rooney helps edge Norway

England have narrowly overcome Norway 1-0 in an international friendly at Wembley on Wednesday night.

New captain Wayne Rooney converted from the penalty spot with just over 20 minutes remaining as Roy Hodgson's Three Lions tuned up for Monday's opening Group E Euro2016 qualifier against Switzerland in Basel.

A fairly mediocre crowd of 40,181 turned up to London's main stadium to see an uninspiring England side eventually edge Norway after Raheem Sterling was brought down in the area by Omar Elabdellaoui.

Manchester United's Rooney, who has replaced the retired Steven Gerrard as captain, took the honours and fired beyond Orjan Nyland to give his side the lead.

After the goal, Hodgson's men began to play with a more carefree attitude and were able to create some chances but in the end, the one-goal lead was enough.

England started with Everton youngster John Stones in defence in his international debut before he was replaced by Arsenal signing (and fellow debutant) Calum Chambers in the 81st minute while Danny Welbeck, debutant Fabian Delph, James Milner, Phil Jagielka and Rickie Lambert all received game time in the second half.

Hodgson started with Joe Hart in goal while Stones, Phil Jones, Gary Cahill and Leighton Baines made up the back four. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere and Sterling formed a four-man midfield while Rooney was partnered by Daniel Sturridge up front.

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Andrew Slevison
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