Steph Houghton and Wayne Rooney discuss Wembley games

Wednesday 08 Oct 2014
England skippers Rooney and Houghton chat at St. George's Park

England captains Wayne Rooney and Steph Houghton met at St. George's Park as they both prepare for big games at Wembley Stadium.

Rooney is building up to Thursday's European Qualifier against San Marino under the arch, while Houghton cannot wait for a historic meeting with Germany there next month. Tickets for both games are available here.

England v Germany

International Match
3pm, Sunday 23 November
Wembley Stadium connected by EE
www.TheFA.com/tickets

The England Women's team will play their first game at the new Wembley Stadium on 23 November, and Houghton was delighted to pick up some advice from the Three Lions men's skipper.

"The first person I saw at St. George's Park was Wayne Rooney," said Houghton.

"He's a really nice man and he came and asked about my season and if I'm looking forward to the game at Wembley.

"He also talked a bit about their upcoming game on Thursday. It was a nice chat and a real pleasure to meet him."

Steph Houghton meets Wayne Rooney

Houghton and her team will arrive at Wembley full of confidence after a perfect qualification campaign for next year's World Cup in Canada.

England won all ten of their group matches, conceding one goal along the way, and the Manchester City defender is encouraging fans to come along and see a "passionate" team in action at the national stadium.

"What a game it will be against Germany, who will provide us with a big test," continued Houghton. "To be playing at Wembley is what everyone is dreaming about.

"Fingers crossed we can get a big crowd there supporting us. It's going to be an exciting time for women's football and one that we can't wait for.

"We want to show the passion we have for our country and want to wear that jersey with pride.

"We are always committed and try to play good football, keep the ball on the ground and show some attacking flair.

"I would definitely encourage people to come to Wembley to watch us."

Steph Houghton and Wayne Rooney

Steph and Wayne talk Wembley

While many of Mark Sampson's squad will be making their Wembley debut, Houghton herself has already enjoyed a special night there.

During London 2012, Houghton was captain on the Great Britain Women's team who helped inspire the nation.

And in a group clash against widely-tipped Brazil, the Durham-born star smashed home the only goal to win the game.

"It was probably the best night of my football career. To be a part of the Olympic Games in London and to play at Wembley in front of 70,000 people was just a brilliant occasion.

"It kind of changed women's football, it was a day in history and one that we want to try and repeat that."

Tickets for the game against Germany at Wembley Stadium are still on sale. To make sure you are there to show your support for England, buy online here.

By Jamie Bradbury FA Editor