Everton boss David Moyes has leapt to the defence of Manchester United striker Rooney_79586.shtml'>Wayne Rooney and criticised the 19-year-old's detractors.
Moyes managed Rooney before he was sold by Everton to United in a £30m deal and he said: "The attention is always going to be hard for him.

"Young boys have to grow up and we all go through the same things and have done the same things.

"The critics have probably done the same things as Wayne has."

Rooney was reportedly dropped as guest of honour for the semi-final of an English Schools' Football Association (ESFA) game after organisers claimed he was "not a good role model".

He has also been criticised by Fifa chief Sepp Blatter who said Rooney needed a "clip round the ear".

Moyes added: "They are the people who should look into their consciences and realise this young boy is doing the same things as them and me when we were his age.

"Just because he is a very good footballer does not mean he should be treated the way he is being treated."

Rooney has scored 17 goals this season for the Old Trafford club and will be vying for his first domestic honour when he plays for United against Arsenal in the FA Cup final on Saturday.

Moyes said: "Wayne has become what everybody hoped he would become. We were desperate to keep him and I loved working with him.

"It was short but something I will always remember. He came on the scene as a very young player and I arrived as a very young manager and we both developed.

"He helped me and I hope in a small way he will think that I helped him as well.

"As a footballer he has become a tremendous all-round player, he can play in nearly every position on the pitch, including in goal.

"I have seen him in goal, he is very brave and a great talent.

"We wish he was still here. But we have moved on, he has moved on. Good luck to him."

Rooney is a tw**, no other word for it.

Language Shaggy, youre a mod ! Nos waering please - Welshie

Agreed - General