Rooney threatens over ban

August 20, 2006 21:46 IST

Wayne Rooney is threatening to withdraw commercial support for the Football Association because he is angry at being banned for three matches, newspapers reported on Sunday.

The Manchester United forward's agent has written to the FA saying Rooney will refuse permission for the use of his image in England-related marketing and will not make appearances for the FA's commercial partners unless his suspension is reconsidered.

Rooney, whose suspension begins on August 23, was controversially sent off for violent conduct against Porto in a pre-season tournament in Amsterdam on August 4.

Agent Paul Stretford said Rooney felt let down by the FA.

"While he will continue if selected to play for his country with pride and commitment, he is considering withdrawing his support for the FA's commercial programme," Stretford was quoted by the Observer newspaper as saying in the letter.

New England manager Steve McClaren has also questioned the ban saying it made his relationship with the clubs more difficult.

Rooney also faces a two-match international suspension after being sent off against Portugal in the World Cup He will not be available to face Andorra and Macedonia in Euro 2008 qualifiers next month.

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