Wayne Rooney Apologises for 'Inappropriate' Images and Behaviour

Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney has issued an apology after pictures emerged showing he had attended a wedding party the night after England beat Scotland at Wembley.

Rooney's statement offered a complete apology, according to a report from the Press Association and the Guardian: "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."

Rooney's apology comes amid reports club manager Jose Mourinho was also left unimpressed by the incident, according to Sky Sports News HQ's Andy Burton.

Rooney also made clear how his behaviour does not set the right example for supporters, per the statement: “Naturally Wayne is sorry that pictures taken with fans have been published today. 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."

Pictures from the party showed Rooney seemingly intoxicated, according to witnesses, per Nick Parker and Jake Ryan of the Sun. The same pair relayed further unflattering images in another Sun report.

They also revealed how Rooney was said to be drinking alongside officials from the FA. The latter detail has reportedly left United chief Mourinho angry.

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Burton described Mourinho as "incensed" by the incident: "Sky sources have been told that, while the Manchester United manager has no issue with Rooney relaxing on a night off, he is unhappy that the England captain was allowed to behave in this manner while under the responsibility of the Football Association - and that it has since become public."

The FA responded with its own statement regarding the conduct of players on international duty. It's something English football's governing body has promised to review, per Burton.

A thorough review of what's known as "overnight free time" now seems inevitable.

Rooney was sent home from the England camp with a minor knee problem, ahead of Tuesday's friendly with Spain, per the national side's official Twitter account:

However, Burton also revealed how United expect Rooney to be available for selection for their upcoming Premier League match against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Saturday.

His status at kick-off time will show how much this incident has harmed his standing, both for his country and especially with Mourinho at the club level.