Intro:

Norway look ahead to England friendly match, which they contest away from home at Wembley stadium on Wednesday night (September 3).

Script:

SOUNDBITE: (English) Per-Mathias Hogmo, Norway coach:

"I think England are in the same situation as we are. They are building up a quite new team. They have young players coming up - a good mix of players, Rooney as a great captain, a great player. So for us it's a good game."

SOUNDBITE: (English) Vegard Forren, Norway defender:

(on calling Wayne Rooney chubby):

"No, like I said it was meant as a joke. I'm a big (Manchester) United fan, I'm a big Rooney fan and I've been watching United since I was a little boy so just a little joke. I'm very happy to met him and I look forward to playing against him because he's a world class player and one of the best strikers I know. Like I said, it was just a small joke."

SOUNDBITE: (England) Morten Gamst Pedersen, Norway forward:

(on Wayne Rooney being England captain):

"He's a great player, he's a superstar worldwide and everything. I think he's been a fantastic player for England and Manchester United. He's probably one of the most capped players on the team and he's got respect I think. Maybe that can push him to be a better player as well. He's on a high level but maybe the captaincy can give him a little extra motivation and even do better. I hope he's going to do well and I wish him all the best. He's a good guy and a good footballer so it's good for us."