Wayne Rooney has weighed in on England's biggest match in years, previewing their World Cup semi-final against Argentina on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast — and the former England captain sounded cautiously bullish about the nation's prospects.

Bellingham and Kane: The Two Men Who Matter Most

Rooney was unequivocal about where England's hopes rest. Speaking to hosts Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith, he singled out Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane as the two players most central to this England side's ambitions. Given their respective seasons — Bellingham's extraordinary rise at Real Madrid and Kane's prolific form in the Bundesliga — it is difficult to argue with that assessment.

Rooney also offered an insight into the dynamic between Bellingham and head coach Thomas Tuchel, and made clear he welcomes the friction. The idea that a 21-year-old feels confident enough to push back against one of Europe's most decorated managers speaks to a self-belief that England's golden generations of the past so often appeared to lack. Rooney knows that territory well, and his admiration for Bellingham navigating it so assuredly carries genuine weight.

Lessons From His Own Career

In a more reflective passage, Rooney drew parallels between what England's current stars are experiencing and moments from his own playing days. He has been at World Cups where the expectation curdled into anxiety, and at others where the squad simply did not have the quality to match the hype. His verdict on this group seems to be that they have both the quality and, crucially, the temperament — at least in Bellingham's case.

Rooney also offered a more personal aside, revealing that musicals help him decompress ahead of high-pressure occasions. It is the sort of detail that humanises a figure who can sometimes come across as all football, all the time. Before the biggest games of his career, apparently, the West End had a role to play.

The Prank, Ferguson, and Ronaldo

No interview with Rooney would be complete without a story from his Manchester United days, and he did not disappoint. He recounted a prank he pulled alongside Cristiano Ronaldo on Sir Alex Ferguson — a tale that, unsurprisingly, drew some attention. The specifics were shared on air and are well worth a listen; the broad picture is one of a dressing room relaxed enough to wind up its own manager, which tells you something about the culture Ferguson built.

Spain the Team to Beat After France Exit

The podcast also featured Julien Laurens reacting to Spain's elimination of France, which secured their place in the World Cup final. Laurens suggested Spain now look like the most complete team left in the tournament — a view that will sharpen minds in the England camp as they prepare to face Argentina in the last four.

For England supporters, the semi-final is the realisation of hope that has been building across the tournament. Argentina, with their own considerable pedigree and momentum, will provide the sternest possible test. Rooney's verdict — that Bellingham and Kane can be the difference — feels about right. Whether it proves correct is the question the whole country is waiting to have answered.

Frequently asked

When is England v Argentina in the World Cup semi-final?
The exact date and UK kick-off time had not been confirmed at the time of writing. Check the official FIFA website or BBC Sport for the latest scheduling information.
What did Wayne Rooney say about Jude Bellingham?
Rooney highlighted Bellingham as one of the two most important players to this England side, alongside Harry Kane. He also said he enjoys seeing Bellingham challenge head coach Thomas Tuchel, viewing it as a sign of the midfielder's confidence and maturity.
Who will England face if they beat Argentina?
According to analyst Julien Laurens on the same BBC Radio 5 Live podcast, Spain have reached the World Cup final after knocking out France, meaning England would face Spain if they defeat Argentina in the semi-final.