Wayne Rooney says he would grasp the opportunity to become Manchester United captain “with both hands”.
With current club captain Nemanja Vidic on his way out of the club and en route to Inter Milan, manager David Moyes has a void to fill and a decision to make at the end of the season.
Many are tipping the England striker to be handed the Manchester United armband in the summer - and Rooney said that if he was to be selected it would be an opportunity he would relish.
Fact file
- Born: 24 October 1985
- Place: Croxteth, Liverpool
- England appearances: 89
- Goals: 38
- International debut: v Australia (12 Feb 2003)
Speaking to the club’s in-house magazine, he said: "I've done it a few times and, if the manager wants me to be the captain, I would have no problem with that. I would take it with both hands.
"However, it is down to the manager, because it's his decision on whoever he feels is the right person to lead the team. I'm sure he'll make that decision when the time comes.
"I think, whether you've got the armband or not, I always feel I'm quite vocal on the pitch. I try to help the players when I feel I can and say what I think. I believe that's the most important thing."
Rooney, who signed a five-and-a-half contract extension in February, has also been talked about as a future England captain.
The striker said it would be an honour captain his country on permanent basis – but admitted he would face stern competition from a number of other players.
"It would be a great honour to captain my country but, again, it's the manager's call and I'm sure he'll have a few contenders."
Rooney celebrates at Crystal Palace
Manchester United and Rooney now head into a crucial period of their season - with games against close rivals Liverpool and Manchester City either side of their UEFA Champions League second leg against Olympiacos.
And Rooney admitted that the season had been difficult for Moyes' men.
"It's not nice when we know we are capable of being up there challenging and we haven't been doing that this season," he added.
"As a group of players and a team we haven't been good enough this season and we have to put that right.
"After Sir Alex being here for 26 years, there was always going to be a change whoever came in and, in fairness, I think the players have to do better.
"Hopefully we can make the top four but, if not, we will still come back firing for next season."
