While the incident drew sharp criticism from some pundits, including ex-Blackburn striker Chris Sutton who called the celebration “sheer stupidity” on a live radio show, Rooney offered a more sympathetic view.

Speaking on his podcast, the former England captain acknowledged the mistake but said the emotional moment was understandable.

“He’s been caught up in the emotion of scoring a goal, and he’ll probably regret it,” Rooney said.
“I’m not defending it because it is silly, but what we’ve seen over recent years with VAR players scoring goals and having to wait before celebrating, I think it’s actually refreshing to see someone show that kind of emotion.”

Rooney also noted that the suspension could open the door for fellow new signing Alexander Isak to make an impact.

“He’s doing really well, and it’s probably a shootout between him and Isak to start against Palace,” Rooney added. “He’s giving Isak the chance to come in and try to take his place. So I’m sure he’ll be devastated.”

Ekitike’s absence will be a blow for Liverpool, as the forward has been gaining momentum in recent weeks.

Source: Punch

The post Wayne Rooney Defends Hugo Ekitike’s Celebration Despite Red Card and Suspension appeared first on Afinju FM.

“I had it in DC with one of my players who got racially abused, and he was crying on my chest,” Rooney said. “You have to hit the clubs because that’s the only way it will stop. If there is ignorance, the fans will still do it. You have to hit the clubs by taking off points or take money away from them. Otherwise, it will keep on going,” he said.

The discussion comes in the wake of Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo reporting racist abuse from a spectator during his side’s 4-2 defeat to Liverpool in Friday’s Premier League opener. The match was briefly halted in the 29th minute after Semenyo alerted the referee.

Rooney stressed the need for stronger punishments to hold clubs accountable, alongside widespread education campaigns targeting children, parents, and even grandparents.

“There needs to be a strong campaign for society to be educated. People often say things as throwaway lines without understanding the pain it causes. There has to be more done to stop it,” he added.

Source: Punch

The post Rooney Urges Points Deductions, Heavy Fines to Tackle Racism appeared first on Afinju FM.