Wayne Rooney told assembled reporters on Saturday that “enough is enough” and he is fed up with what he perceives to be mistreatment towards him from the media. Speaking after Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford, Rooney branded the reaction to his night out while on international duty “disgraceful”.
Rooney had previously apologised publicly and to interim manager Gareth Southgate after pictures emerged showing him out in the early hours last Saturday. But he has been angered by the fall-out since the incident. In a statement to the BBC, he said that he feels like “the media are trying to write my obituary” but added that he “won’t let that happen”.
Is Rooney unfairly singled out?
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has spoken in defence of his captain this week, pointing out that other England players were also out late but received nowhere near the same level of attention. Meanwhile, Jürgen Klopp of Liverpool could not see what the fuss was all about. He thinks today’s Football players are extremely professional, especially compared to previous generations.
Rooney has been the subject of intense scrutiny throughout his career. He burst onto the Premier League scene all the way back in 2002 by scoring a spectacular winner for Everton against Arsenal. He was just 16.
By the age of 18, he had already starred for England at Euro 2004 before being signed by Sir Alex Ferguson at United.
Since then, he has been a leading light for both United and England, winning multiple honours with the Red Devils. He has also been appointed captain for both club and country.
However, Rooney has suffered a fall from grace at club and international level this season. He is no longer considered an automatic starter for either side, though both England interim manager Southgate and United’s Mourinho claim that they consider him vital to their respective teams.
Fans and experts agree reaction is over-the-top
Football pundits, mostly former players, are almost universal in their support of Rooney. They feel he is harshly treated given his exemplary record for United and England. He is only two goals behind Bobby Charlton’s record for United, and has already surpassed the World Cup winner at international level.
Shock, horror. England footballer has a few drinks after a game. Would never have happened in my day.....much. 🙄
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) November 17, 2016
Fans also tend to sympathise with Rooney regarding the reaction this week, although they have often been less forgiving regarding his form so far this season. His demotion to the bench for club and country is largely thought to have been justified.
But by showing such defiance this afternoon, Rooney appears as determined as ever. He also offered a glimpse of a return to form with a much-improved display at Swansea prior to the international break. Rooney may soon be making the headlines for entirely positive reasons.
