Bobby Charlton on Wayne Rooney
September 9, 2015
We all know the saying ‘records are meant to be broken.’ Last night, the world of football witnessed just that at the famous Wembley stadium in London.
Laureus Academy Member Bobby Charlton became England's record scorer in 1968 and netted his 49th goal in the 1970 World Cup; a record that many thought would never be broken. However, English football icon Wayne Rooney reached the remarkable 50 goals mark with a penalty in the 2-0 win over Switzerland. He is now England's all-time leading scorer.
His 84th-minute goal moved him one clear of Bobby Charlton, whose long-standing feat of 49 was matched by the Manchester United captain against San Marino a few days ago.
Speaking after the match, Rooney said: "The record is a huge honour because Sir Bobby Charlton is an England and Manchester United legend. I know Sir Bobby will be extremely proud that a Manchester United captain has broken the record."
Laureus Academy Member Bobby Charlton, speaking via Manchester United, praised the new record-holder:
"I would like to congratulate Wayne on becoming England's leading goal scorer. It is a record that I am sure he will hold for a long time, and it is clear to see that he will go on scoring for his club and country for a long time to come.”
