Rooney Apologises To Manchester United Fans And Team Mates

On the back of his sending off in the English Premier League match with West Ham, Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has apologised for been sent off by referee Lee Mason at Old Trafford. Wayne Rooney received the marching order after kicking Stewart Downing in the opponent’s half in what could result in a counter attack against United.

Louis Van Gaal believes the tackle was a professional foul while Sam Allardyce is not anywhere near been pleased with the tackle. Wayne Rooney himself has accepted the red card and doesn’t think it is wise appealing the decision. Wayne in his own thought believes the tackle was more of a misjudgement rather than malicious as been termed by many and the Reds skipper will miss the next three matches against Everton, West Brom and Chelsea in the English Premier League.

In my opinion, Wayne Rooney’s tackle is highly professional and he was an intention by the striker to stop the West Ham counter attack. There are times players get sent off for the team but Wayne’s idea of tripping downing almost cost Manchester United the maximum three points. In a match the striker did well to score the first goal for his side, his dismissal created a big gap as United struggle to hold on to their 2-1 lead with a man lesser than their opponent.

This brings up the issue of Rooney’s importance to the squad which has always been a debate in recent times. Although Manchester United were on the back foot for the most part of the second half of the match, the dismissal left the midfield open and the impact was really felt. Robin Van Persie, the other goal scorer on the night took up the captaincy responsibility but failed to get going in the game as he became isolated upfront. Darren Fletcher did well to give a needed balance to the team but the inability of the Red Devils to attack left their opponent putting more pressure on them. United lacked a real leader after the dismissal and this must be said and how the team will cope in his absence is yet to be seen. Wayne on different occasions joined the defence in an attempt to stop the Hammers’ attack which could probably be the reason why the Van Gaal picked him ahead of Juan Mata.

Many critics have an opportunity to lay hands on Wayne with his action but I think too much importance has been attached to the issue and the striker has done well in apologising for his actions. He will definitely be missed as Manchester United doesn’t have a replacement for him in his absence. Hopefully the likes of Juan Mata and Adnan Januzaj will step up and take the chance to claim a first team opportunity.