Rooney so proud of squad for Millwall response
WAYNE Rooney says he spoke to the Derby County players on Monday to express his pride in how they handled what happened at Millwall on Saturday.
Derby’s game at the Den was marred when a number of Millwall supporters booed the players for taking the knee in support of Black Lives Matter and the ongoing fight against racial discrimination.
Rooney released a statement on Sunday hitting out at “disgraceful” behaviour by some Millwall fans.
Millwall also released a statement to say they were “saddened and dismayed by the events” while the Football Association have said they are investigating the matter.
Asked about the thinking behind the statement he put out on Twitter, Rooney said: “Once I stepped back from the game and had time to think over what happened – and I have a lot of following on social media – it was important I give my feelings on that and show the support to all my team and everyone at the club.
“We won’t stand or tolerate that behaviour because I think it is wrong. It is not needed in football and any walk of life.
“We told the players how proud we are of their reaction to it. The more people who give their opinions and stand up to it, the better, obviously.”
Asked what steps should be taken against the fans involved, Rooney said: “That will come down to Millwall and the EFL. I will leave that decision to the powers that be.
“Football has a huge voice and following all around the world. I think it is important we all play a part in that to try and stop racism and discrimination, and for everyone to pull together.”