Theo Walcott: Wayne Rooney is a winner and believes England can achieve something special at Euro 2016
Theo Walcott has labelled his England teammate Wayne Rooney as a "winner" following the forward's record-equalling 49th goal for the Three Lions and also revealed the duo both believe the national side can achieve something special at Euro 2016.
Rooney scored England's opening goal in their 6-0 thrashing of San Marino on Saturday, which ensured Roy Hodgson's side became the first team to qualify for next year's European Championships in France.
However, the goal was also significant as it brought Rooney level with Sir Bobby Charlton's all-time goals record for England - with the nation's home game against Switzerland on Tuesday giving the 29-year-old the chance to surpass the legendary Red Devils player.
And speaking after the game, Walcott - who scored twice against San Marino - praised his compatriot for his achievement.
"What can you say? Wayne has been doing it for years. It just shows how established he is as an England international and a Manchester United player," Walcott said.
"He is so good in that dressing room, he is a winner. In training, he always wants to win - never wants to lose.
"He just wants to improve and improve this team. He has that belief in this dressing room that this young talent can actually go on and do something special and I believe that too."
England's seven wins from their seven qualifying Group E matches so far means the nation are only the sixth team to book their place at a European Championship with a perfect record.
And Walcott admitted he felt England's results in qualifying showed why Hodgson's side could triumph at the tournament next year.
"I think this team is getting better and better, and that's what we want to do going into the tournament next year,” the Arsenal forward said.
"It'll definitely be a big achievement if we can go far. I am sure that we can. The manager has got that in our system, that he believes in us.
"The belief is there, the confidence is there, so why not?"
ArticleWalcott labels England compatriot Rooney as a 'winner'EnglandSir Bobby CharltonTheo WalcottWayne RooneyEuro 2016Theo Walcott: Wayne Rooney is a winner and believes England can achieve something special at Euro 2016Theo Walcott: England can win Euro 2016Wayne Rooney: Manchester United and England captain can extend his career by playing in midfield - David MoyesEngland manager Roy Hodgson explains why he substituted record-chasing Wayne RooneyPublishedImageMedium widthSunday, September 6, 2015 - 17:57Winner: Theo Walcott has lavished praise on his England compatriot Wayne RooneyOn