Rooney sorry for ‘drunk’ pictures at team hotel
london — England football captain Wayne Rooney has apologised after “inappropriate” photos of him the worse for wear at the team hotel were published.
Interim manager Gareth Southgate said meanwhile that a review would be carried out of how players spend their free time while on international duty. 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.
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 today.
“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.” Southgate was adamant that Rooney had not been left out of the Spain game as a disciplinary measure. “Wayne picked up an injury in the game (against Scotland) on Friday,” said Southgate. “He couldn’t train on Sunday and that’s it.” —