Wayne Rooney says England’s meeting with France will be a chance for the nations to show their togetherness following the shocking events in Paris on Friday.
The Three Lions were playing in Spain when news broke of events in the French capital, and around the Stade de France where Didier Deschamps' team were playing Germany.
Initially, Rooney and his England team-mates thought Tuesday's game at Wembley might not go-ahead but on Saturday it was confirmed – following discussions between the FFF, The FA and the authorities – that the fixture would be played.
England v France
Breast Cancer Care International
8pm, Tuesday 17 November 2015
Wembley Stadium connected by EE
And the England skipper says the night will allow the players stand up against terrorism.
“We saw in the dressing room after the game [in Spain]. It was shocking, really. It's hard for the football players,” said Rooney.
“We knew, when we saw it unfold, there was a chance the game [with France] might not be on. A chance it was on, too. And we were happy to do whatever, either way.
The Wembley Arch is lit with Le Tricolore
“I'm happy the game's on. It shows France wants to show these terrorists they're standing strong against them, and we have to support that.
“It will be a great night of togetherness for everyone to see, for the terrorists to see the world will go on and stand against them.
“Before the game, it will be a bit strange. I've never experienced going into a game with something like this having happened.
“But you have to go out there and try to win the game. Once it kicks off, we'll try and win the game. But, in respect, it's a difficult situation for everyone and particularly the French team.”
England train ahead of meeting with France
England boss Roy Hodgson says his team will feature at least six players under the age of 22, with around 17 of his regular squad members unavailable for selection due to injury.
The 30-year-old skipper, who is set to win his 109th England cap, says he will help those youngsters feel at home, but knows they will also be in the team on merit.
One of the newcomers is Rooney's Manchester United team-mate Jesse Lingard, who has played for the U21s and featured seven times for the Old Trafford outfit this season.
And Rooney says the 22-year-old forward will relish a chance to play at Wembley.
Jesse Lingard during training with England on Monday
“There are a lot of young players in the game tomorrow, and it's an extremely difficult situation. Myself, Roy, Gary Neville, Ray Lewington, all the coaches in the dressing room will try and make them as relaxed as possible during the game.
"But these players are playing in the Premier League every week. They wouldn't be here if the manager didn't feel they couldn't do the job.
“Jesse, it won't affect him. He's a very level-headed lad. I think he's done great for United over the last few weeks. There have been a lot of injuries, and he's got a chance.
"I'm sure he's excited and will relish the opportunity if he manages to get on the pitch.”
