Rooney expects intense atmosphere at Celtic Park

Wayne Rooney knows exactly what to expect at Celtic Park on Tuesday night– an incredible atmosphere and partisan home crowd – but believes the Three Lions will be ready for everything the Scots have to offer.

The Three Lions captain has been to Celtic's home several times as a spectator and played against them for Manchester United in the Champions League eight years ago.

So he is aware how big a test the friendly against Scotland will be, especially for the younger players in Roy Hodgson's side.

Rooney said: “I have been here a few times to watch Celtic play, and I have played here on a big night in the Champions League.

“The atmosphere was incredible before the game. You know that for every tackle and every challenge the fans will be behind Scotland, and we have to be ready for that. 

“I think it will be a great test. The atmosphere is really loud and it will be intense. The younger players in particular have to make sure they are ready at the start of the game because if you are not it can take you by surprise. But I am sure we'll be ready for the atmosphere and it will be a great test for us.”

Rooney admits that he is thrilled to be taking part in the oldest fixture in international football, with his particular favourite memory being Gazza's famous goal at Euro '96.

He said: “It's a fantastic game to be part of. I was excited when this fixture was announced and now it is here.

"Scotland are doing well at the moment, playing good football and getting good results, so I think it will be a good, competitive game.”

But England are on a hot streak of five successive wins and Rooney added: “We're on a good run at the moment and it's important we continue this form and keep getting results.

"We all know our next game is in March so it would be disappointing if we come off the back of a bad result, and have to wait so long to put that right.

"We want to win this game and end the year on a high, and that is our aim.”