Keane: Why is ‘awful’ Rooney slapping wrestlers?

Roy Keane has criticised Wayne Rooney, labelling him “awful” and questioning the off-field activities of the Manchester United captain.

Rooney was once more disappointing upon his return from injury as United laboured to a 0-0 draw against PSV on Wednesday, leaving their Champions League qualification hopes in a shroud of uncertainty with just one game left.

Rooney failed to register a single shot on target against the Dutch side at Old Trafford, and also failed to create a chance for his team-mates in the 90 minutes he was afforded.

Speaking to ITV, Keane criticised the 30-year-old as “awful”, and questioned why he appeared on-camera at a wrestling event last month, slapping one of the performers.

“It seemed a strange atmosphere at Old Trafford tonight, they lacked cutting edge,” the Republic of Ireland assistant manager said. “You got the impression the players were waiting for something to happen, rather than going and making it happen. Wayne was on about lack of composure and quality, but I think he was as guilty as anybody. He needs to step up to the plate.

“You look at Wayne’s legacy at Old Trafford, it’s absolutely fantastic, his goals record is brilliant. But now he’s the captain there’s more responsibility and I think he’s got to do a lot more.

“I always question certain players what are they doing off the field. Last week I saw him slapping a wrestler and I’m thinking ‘Why is he getting involved in all that nonsense?’ There’s no benefit to him. I’d have a look at that side of it.

“It’s certainly not helping him. I wouldn’t begrudge him going out and enjoying himself, but if you’re not at it yourself you’ve got to have a look and lead by example. He didn’t do that tonight. He doesn’t look sharp, he looks awful

“Mentally he doesn’t look really sharp, physically he doesn’t look in great shape. He needs to have a look at himself.”