Following this weekend’s revelation that Wayne Rooney was arrested in America for public intoxication, the footballer has released a statement.
The 33-year-old’s spokesperson claimed his behaviour was a result of taking sleeping tablets on a flight while drinking, making him feel “disorientated”.
The statement read: “During the flight Wayne took a prescribed amount of sleeping tablets mixed with some alcohol consumption and consequently was disorientated on arrival.
“He was approached by police who arrested him on a minor misdemeanour charge.
“He received a statutory automatic fine and was released shortly afterwards at the airport. The matter is now at an end.”
The spokesperson added: “Wayne would like to put on record his appreciation for the manner he was treated by all involved.”
Wayne – who is married to Coleen Rooney and has four sons – was fined $25, as well as $91 costs, on January 4.
It followed his arrest on December 16 by the Washington Airport Authority for “public swearing and intoxication” at Dulles International Airport in Virginia.
The former Manchester United player, who now plays for Major League Soccer’s DC United in Washington, was apparently returning from a one-day trip to Saudi Arabia.
His new football club also released a statement, saying: “We are aware of news reports indicating that Wayne Rooney was arrested in December.
“We understand the media’s interest in this matter but we believe this is a private matter for Wayne that DC United will handle internally. We have no further comment on this situation.”
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Twitter fans rushed to comment on the news, with many condemning his behaviour.
One said: “Wayne Rooney was arrested at airport allegedly being intoxicated and swearing! Just goes to show the old cliche all that money but you can’t buy class or respect!”
Another tweeted that he sees himself as: “Above the law he thinks.”
A third added: “The statement issued by #WayneRooney after his latest misdemeanour caused my eyes to roll 🙄.”
Others defended the England player, tweeting: “People complaining about Wayne Rooney. As long as he is scoring goals, let him drink all the beer and let him insult who the hell he wants 😎.”
One more joked: “Why does it feel patriotic that Wayne Rooney was arrested for public intoxication and swearing🤔😂.”
It’s not Wayne’s first arrest for drinking-related offences.
In September 2017, the star was banned from driving for two years after admitting to drink-driving home after a night out.
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After turning her life upside down to move to Washington, we’re wondering what Coleen makes of her husband’s latest error…
What do you think of Wayne’s statement? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think.