Rooneys victim could help cut ban

Last updated : 18 October 2011 By Daily Mail

Rooney was sent off for lashing out at Montenegro's Dzudovic in England's final Euro 2012 qualifier and, as it stands, will miss his side's group games next summer after landing a three-match suspension.

Dzudovic believes the punishment for the kick is harsh and a UEFA spokeman said: 'Of course it has happened in the past where the aggrieved party has spoken up for the player who has been banned, but we do not disclose details of what happens in hearings.

All kicking off: Wayne Rooney lashes out at Montenegro's Miodrag Dzudovoic

Got to go: Rooney is giving a red card for his moment of madness in Montenegro

'We have nothing against that and I am sure everybody would be happy to hear that kind of support.'

The FA are still weighing up whether to appeal the ban. They have three days after receiving UEFA's full report,which is expected later this week, to decide and may choose to leave itrather than risk an extended ban.

Nowhere to hide: Rooney walks off after his red card

But if they decide to take it further, 32-year-old Spartak Nalchik defender Dzudovic is willing to help.

He said: 'I don't think it was fair (the punishment). He just was not thinking in that moment and after thathe realised what he had done.

'He realised immediately what he had done and he apologised to me.

'It was really painful. I had a slight swelling after game but I didn't have a bruise.

'I wasn't shocked because I wasn't aware of the kick at that moment.'

If the ban stands, England manager Fabio Capello must decide whether it is worth taking Rooney to Poland and Ukraine at all.

 

Source: Daily Mail