Hart backs Rooney for captaincy

Wayne Rooney might have labelled Joe Hart as the best goalkeeper in the world last week - but if Roy Hodgson needs another captain on Friday, the Manchester City man knows who he thinks will get the call.

With Steven Gerrard suspended and vice-captain Frank Lampard troubled by a knee injury picked up on Chelsea duty at the weekend, Hodgson might be picking a team for the World Cup qualifier with San Marino without his captain and deputy.

Of the alternatives, Rooney and Hart are the most plausible candidates given Ashley Cole will not be considered. However, Hart said: "I've no idea who is going to be captain but I am pretty sure it will fall to Rooney. He is our star man with 10 million caps at the age of whatever he is, 26? I imagine he is a little bit further up the queue than me."

Fabio Capello did give Rooney the job once, for the friendly defeat to Brazil in Qatar three years ago.

The Italian was never convinced by Rooney's leadership qualities though. And as Dino Zoff and Iker Casillas have both captained World Cup-winning teams from their goalkeeping positions, there is no reason why Hart could not be considered.

"Of course I would, anyone would," said Hart, when asked if he would like to do the job.

"But I didn't go into goal thinking I wanted to be captain. I just want to play and do my best for the team, whether you've got the band or you haven't. It is a great thing to play for your country. I'm not really bothered who is in charge of it."