Wayne Rooney gives reason for pulling out of first-ever MOTD appearance

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has explained his absence from BBC’s Match of the Day on Saturday night.

The club’s all-time record goalscorer is living proof that injuries can still impact retired professional footballers after he confirmed via X that an injury prevented his first-ever appearance on the programme.

Rooney has ventured into management since hanging up his boots as a footballer. He has enjoyed spells with Derby County and DC United in recent years, although his most recent job at Birmingham City was a horrid experience.

It remains to be seen if Rooney is rushing to get back into the management, or else he could bide some time by dipping into punditry for a bit. We’ve seen Roy Keane do that with much success.

Sadly, Rooney had to pull out of Saturday’s Match of the Day due to “a painful back injury” he picked up during a recent holiday with his family.

Taking to X at 9.53 pm on Saturday night, Rooney posted the following message: “Gutted not to be making my debut on the iconic @BBCMOTD show tonight, it’s something I have wanted to do since I was little.

“Unfortunately I have sustained a painful back injury during a holiday with my family but I look forward to being part of the team in the near future. Good luck to @GaryLineker and the guys for tonight’s show and see you soon.”