Wayne Rooney admits game is in a "difficult period"

England captain Wayne Rooney has admitted that he is in a "difficult period" after being dropped for Tuesday's World Cup qualifier against Slovenia.

The Manchester United forward, who was booed by sections of the Wembley crowd during Saturday's 2-0 win over Malta, is expected to start the game in Ljubljana on the bench.

Rooney told journalists at a press conference on Monday: "My game now? Of course, I'm not denying it is in a difficult period.

"I've been on the bench the last few games for Manchester United but that's part of football. I have to work hard and when I'm needed for both club and country, make sure I'm ready."

England interim boss Gareth Southgate says that the 30-year-old will retain the captaincy, but Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson will be the on-field skipper on Tuesday.