Loss to Belgium was best for England, says Rooney ahead of Colombia clash

Southgate's decision to change the side who beat Panama 6-1 was met with divided opinion in the British media

England’s 1-0 loss to Belgium in their World Cup Group G clash last week was probably the best result for the team, former captain Wayne Rooney said on Tuesday.

England manager Gareth Southgate made eight changes for the game against Belgium and his team finished second in the group to land a potentially easier route through the tournament.

“For me personally, it’s the right decision,” Rooney told ESPN. “The result, in my opinion — I can say it now, I’m not (an England) player — the result was the best result for England.