Rooney defended after drinking apology
LONDON: Wayne Rooney has apologised after “inappropriate” photos of him at a hotel party were released but the England captain has been defended by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp who said all the games greats “drank like devils”.
Rooney was thrown into the spotlight after The Sun tabloid alleged the Manchester United forward drunkenly gatecrashed a wedding at England’s hotel in Watford, north of London, on Saturday.
Media reports said up to 10 other England players who separately went to a London nightclub have also been spoken to.
Rooney started England’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying win over Scotland on Friday, but suffered a knee injury that ruled him out of Tuesday’s 2-2 friendly draw at home to Spain. A statement issued on Rooney’s behalf, said: “Naturally Wayne is sorry that pictures taken with fans have been published on Thursday. “Although it was a day off for the whole squad and staff, he fully recognises that the images are inappropriate for someone in his position.” The statement said Rooney had spoken to Southgate and FA technical director Dan Ashworth “to unreservedly apologise”.
“He would like to further extend that apology to any young fans who have seen these pictures.” An FA spokesperson said: “All England personnel have a responsibility to behave appropriately at all times. We will be reviewing our policy around free time whilst on international duty.” Rooney’s representatives said that he believes he has been an unfair victim of the incessant media glare around top footballers.