Wayne Rooney Shown a Direct Red after VAR Review in MLS

After bringing excitement in the first two weeks of the Premier League 2019/20, VAR spurs controversy in the United States of America’s Major League Soccer(MLS). In a match between D C United and New York Red Bulls, Wayne Rooney was shown a straight red.

Defending a corner in the 23rd minute, Rooney was in a duel with Cristian Casseres Jr, who fell to ground once the corner was taken. Referee immediately went to VAR to check if there was illegal. In the replays from multiple angles, the former Everton and Manchester United star seemed to have deliberately hit his elbow on the face of the DC United man.

The referee immediately marched onto the ground and without any hesitation showed Rooney a red card.

Earlier it was announced that Rooney making a return to English football, joining Championship team Derby County with a long term intention of becoming a manager.

“I am very excited about the opportunity that Derby County have provided me with,” Rooney had said.

“I am looking forward to joining Phillip Cocu, his coaching staff and the first-team squad from the start of January. “I am sure I can make a big contribution and can’t wait to meet everyone, especially the supporters.

“I am equally excited to begin my coaching career at Derby County working with both the first team and Academy.

“I must also take this opportunity to thank DC United, their owners, executives and supporters who have been superb to work with.

“I want them to know that I will give my all in support of our push for the play-offs.”

Ambitious Derby chairman Mel Morris said: “We are absolutely delighted to announce that Wayne Rooney will be joining Derby County.

“This is clearly an exciting signing for us, and Wayne’s presence will further enhance the club’s standing and its ability to perform both on and off the pitch.

“To have Wayne Rooney as a player, and equally as an aspiring coach, is incredible and I can only imagine the buzz this will generate amongst our supporters at home and internationally.”

The 33-year old Wayne Rooney, who will be leaving MLS by the end of the season, will want to leave America in a good fashion. But he has been involved in a spat with the referees far too often in the league. A few days back, after being substituted he marched at the fourth official and repeatedly shouting ‘every f***ing time’.

One would feel, Rooney’s final few months in the American league have to be much better than it has been so far, to leave MLS in a good manner.