• Premier League

Ferguson disappointed with Rooney

ESPN staff
March 6, 2010
Wayne Rooney put in the hard yards against Egypt © Getty Images
Enlarge

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has rebuked Wayne Rooney for playing too long for England in midweek.

Rooney went into England's friendly win over Egypt as an injury doubt, after aggravating a knee complaint in the Carling Cup final win over Aston Villa.

Ferguson expected Rooney to play some part against Egypt, but was upset to see his star striker play most of the 90 minutes. The Scot feels the player's enthusiasm for the game clouded his judgement.

"Playing on that pitch for almost an hour on Sunday and then almost the full 90 minutes on the Wednesday, it's far too much," Ferguson said. "So he's a doubt for the Wolves game.

"I was disappointed more with Wayne. He didn't come off, I couldn't believe it, and now he's a doubt for tomorrow.

"He should have signalled to the bench he wanted to come off. I don't blame Fabio Capello at all - but don't forget he was not supposed to be playing at all. That's what Wayne told us on Sunday because he was feeling his knee. Then all of a sudden people put an arm round his shoulder and he wants to play.

"I don't think he should have played. His own enthusiasm has caused it. He can't say 'No', that's his problem.

"It's hard to quell people with that kind of enthusiasm because it's a restless energy."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices