Gary Cahill has called on England to claim a perfect 10 in qualification for Euro 2016 after lauding Wayne Rooney for his record-breaking exploits.
Cahill is Rooney's deputy as vice-captain and was thrilled as the Manchester United striker netted his 50th international goal in Tuesday night's 2-0 win over Switzerland, surpassing Sir Bobby Charlton as England's record goalscorer.
But now the focus is on the team, already certain of top spot in Group E, and victories over Estonia and in Lithuania next month which would earn a 100 per cent record of 10 wins from 10 games.
"For us it's massively important," Cahill said.
"We've done the hard work in qualifying. Now it's personal pride at stake.
"It's us wanting to set a record. That's our main goal now."
A collective prize is being sought after Rooney struck from the penalty spot six minutes from time to bring up his half-century of goals on his 107th international appearance.
Yet the 29-year-old United striker's performances for England have still divided opinion, publicly at least, as the players never doubted their leader.
"I suppose that's football," Cahill added.
"He's fully appreciated by us, his work rate, his leadership on and off the pitch.
"We appreciate what a top player he is. When you see how old he is, how many caps he's got, how many goals he's got, even at Manchester (United), that speaks for itself."
The affection for Rooney from his peers was evident when he was presented with an England shirt, signed by players and staff, with 'Rooney 50' on it.
Chelsea defender Cahill added: "The manager presented him with a shirt. He gave a little speech to the lads. The lads gave him a bit of banter, just congratulated him.
"It's an amazing achievement for a great player. He's still got many years yet.
"We knew it was going to come, it was just (a question of) when. Great to do it at Wembley."
Source: PA
