Wayne Rooney has “unreservedly” apologised to England interim manager Gareth Southgate and the Football Association.
In a statement released on behalf of the England captain, Rooney admits the images which have emerged this week of him, in the words of the The Sun, being ‘too drunk to stand’, were “inappropriate for someone in his position”.
“Naturally Wayne is sorry that pictures taken with fans have been published today,” said the player’s spokesperson.
“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 Dan Ashworth to unreservedly apologise.
“He would like to further extend that apology to any young fans who have seen these pictures.”
The 31-year-old started the Three Lions’ World Cup qualifying win against Scotland on Friday, but a minor knee injury saw him withdraw from the squad to face Spain.
Interim England manager Southgate was forced to deny after Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Spain that Rooney’s absence was anything to do with images that emerged from The Grove hotel on Saturday night.
The Sun alleged that Rooney dropped in on a wedding party, with the paper printing a photo appearing to show the Manchester United forward, sporting an England training top, looking the worse for wear.
Figures within the FA are understood to be disappointed by what has emerged and overnight free time – in place for a number of years – will now be reviewed.
An FA spokesperson said: “All England personnel have a responsibility to behave appropriately at all times. We will be reviewing our policy around free time whilst on international duty.”
Press Association Sport understands Rooney has been spoken to about the incident, while everyone else involved has or will be spoken to.
Matters will be dealt with internally in terms of repercussions, with the players’ code of conduct introduced in 2012 still in place.
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