Wayne Rooney's new look astonishes football fans during BBC World Cup coverage

Wayne Rooney drew praise from football fans on Tuesday evening after viewers noticed what they believed was a change in his appearance during the BBC's World Cup coverage.The former England captain was part of the broadcaster's punditry team alongside Gael Clichy and Olivier Giroud as France opened their tournament with a 3-1 victory over Senegal in New Jersey.Rooney, who turned 40 earlier this year, appeared fresh-faced on air and quickly became the subject of discussion on social media, with several supporters suggesting he looked fitter and healthier than in recent public appearances.One viewer wrote: Is it me or has Rooney lost weight? Good on ya fella. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Another commented: Is it me or does Rooney look noticeably thinner? Looks better clean shaven too.A third added: Rooney looking proper healthy and noticeably lost loads of weight. Great to see.One fan also suggested the former Manchester United striker may have been working on his fitness.Rooney must be working on his weight, they posted.Others joked that the ex-England skipper had been dealt an impossible task by being seated next to former Arsenal and France striker Giroud, who has long been regarded as one of football's most handsome players.Got to feel a bit sorry for Wayne Rooney, one supporter joked.LATEST SPORTS NEWS:Lionel Messi reveals struggles in personal life after firing Argentina to Algeria World Cup winBBC forced to apologise after making blunder during France and Senegal World Cup matchThomas Tuchel will only sing England national anthem on one condition ahead of Croatia openerHe's lost a bit of weight, had a trim... and then the BBC makes him sit next to Olivier Giroud.The positive reaction came shortly after Rooney and wife Coleen celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary.The couple recently enjoyed a holiday in Spain and shared tributes to each other on social media.Rooney wrote: Happy anniversary @coleen_rooney. Where's them 18 years gone. Thanks for everything. Love you.Coleen responded with a message of her own, posting: Happy anniversary @waynerooney 18 years.Rooney has previously spoken openly about finding it easy to gain weight, revealing in his 2012 autobiography that he once returned from a summer break seven pounds heavier than expected.Writing about the summer of 2009, he said: I'm stocky. I'm not like Ryan Giggs, all bone and lean muscle. But I gain weight quite easily.It's not a problem though.Besides, I know I can shift it in a week or two.Meanwhile, on the pitch, France beat Senegal 3-1.Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show, netting twice, with Bradley Barcola also on target.France face Iraq next, while Senegal will do battle with Norway. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter