No police action for Rooney
Tuesday, 22 April 2003 15:50Police will advise Everton striker Wayne Rooney on his future behaviour but will not charge him over the alleged spitting incident which took place during the Merseyside derby defeat against Liverpool. Merseyside Police have ruled out any official action against Rooney follow allegations from fans that he spat in the direction of Liverpool supporters during Saturday's match at Goodison Park.
But a police spokesman confirmed they will meet Rooney and Everton manager David Moyes, probably tomorrow, to offer advice to the 17-year-old on his future conduct. Everton spokesman Ian Ross said: "We are just delighted this matter has been resolved."
The Goodison club have also revealed they have had dozens of calls from Liverpool fans insisting Rooney did nothing wrong during the Anfield club's 2-1 win, and that the youngster had been subjected to a non-stop barrage of verbal abuse by a section of away supporters at the game.
An Everton spokesman said: "We have had lots of calls, from our own fans as well as Liverpool's, saying Wayne did nothing wrong and shouldn't be in trouble. A spokesman for Merseyside Police added: "We have had the opportunity to speak with supporters who put their complaints forward and we have also had the chance to see a video recording of the incident. Wayne Rooney will be seen by a senior police officer at the earliest opportunity in the presence of the club manager and he will be given suitable advice. No further police action will be contemplated once we have done that."
Filed by Shane Murray
