November 17 – England captain Wayne Rooney has “unreservedly” apologised to interim England manager Gareth Southgate after pictures emerged showing him at a wedding while on international duty.
A statement issued on the striker’s behalf said the incident was “inappropriate for someone in his position”.
The Sun newspaper published images it claimed showed Rooney drunk at a party late on Saturday night – 24 hours after England’s World Cup qualifying win over Scotland but within the week set aside for international fixtures.
“Naturally Wayne is sorry that pictures taken with fans have been published today,” the statement added. “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.
“Earlier today Wayne spoke privately to both Gareth 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.”
Rooney, whose remaining England career has been the subject of intense media scrutiny, has endured a difficult season for both club (Manchester United) and country. He started the World Cup qualifying game against Scotland but withdrew from the squad ahead of Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Spain due to a minor knee injury.
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