Wayne Rooney has offered his insight ahead of England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina, backing Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane as the two players most central to England's hopes of reaching the final.

Speaking on BBC Radio, Rooney explained the unique importance each player brings to Thomas Tuchel's side, and revealed he enjoys watching the dynamic between Tuchel and Bellingham — a relationship built on mutual challenge that Rooney said reminded him of moments from his own playing days.

Musicals and mind games

In a candid conversation with presenters Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith, Rooney also opened up about the personal routines that helped him prepare for major matches. Among his more surprising revelations: he used to turn to musicals to clear his head before the biggest occasions.

Rooney also shared an entertaining story involving himself, Cristiano Ronaldo, and a prank played on former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson — a tale that drew laughs and offered a rare glimpse into the lighter side of one of football's most celebrated dressing rooms.

Spain emerge as favourites after stunning France

Also featured on the programme, football analyst Julien Laurens gave his reaction to Spain's victory over France, a result that sent Spain into the World Cup final and left France eliminated. Laurens argued that Spain now look like the strongest team remaining in the tournament, and outlined why they should be considered the favourites to lift the trophy.

England face Argentina in the semi-final, a fixture loaded with history between the two nations. Rooney's experience of World Cup knockout football — and his understanding of what it takes mentally and technically to succeed at that level — gave his analysis added weight as England prepare for one of their most anticipated matches in years.