Wayne Rooney insists he will have no influence over his role in the England team.

Interim England manager Gareth Southgate confirmed Rooney would retain the captaincy of the national side in the wake of Sam Allardyce's departure, despite him losing his starting spot at Manchester United.

Rooney's performance during Allardyce's sole game in charge – the last-gasp 1-0 World Cup qualifying win in Slovakia – was widely criticised, particularly after the then manager told a post-match news conference "Wayne played wherever he wanted to".

Having dropped into a midfield role for United towards the end of last season and during Euro 2016, Rooney's best position remains a topic of debate, with his performances as a number 10 this term leading to Jose Mourinho benching him at Old Trafford.

Asked at a news conference whether he was guaranteed to start when minnows Malta visit Wembley in Group F on Saturday, Rooney said: "I don’t know, I think that's a question for Gareth.

"And also, another question for England about where I play – it's getting a bit tired, the questions about whether I play striker, midfield, number 10.

"I've answered that question many times and it’s the same answer. I'll play where the manager wants me to play.

"I don't pick myself, I haven't picked myself ever for England. I've played to instructions and I'm sure the instructions Gareth gives me – whether to play or not to play – are instructions which I will try and do to the best of my ability."