Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has found an unlikely ally in the form of Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
Rooney has endured a pretty tough few days after allegations that he stayed out drinking until 5am last Saturday night, before pulling out of England's training session on Sunday and missing Tuesday's friendly with Spain.
Rooney issued an apology for his behaviour before it emerged today that he will now miss United's crucial Premier League match against Arsenal on Saturday.
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But Klopp had a totally different outlook on the events, and seemed to be suggesting that everyone should cut Rooney a bit more slack before condemning him.
Speaking in his weekly press conference ahead of the trip to Southampton at the weekend, Klopp said via the Mirror:
"He's apologised for having a glass of whatever? I really feel for the players. There's a human being behind the kid. This generation is the most professional generation of footballers we have ever had."
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"The legends drank like devils and were still good players. I'm pretty sure what Wayne did wasn't so serious. That's the life we live, under a (magnifying) glass and in one or two weeks no one will remember this."
Rooney's actions at the weekend seem to have divided football fans across the country - but what do you make of Klopp's comments and take on the situation?
Is he right?
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Topics: Liverpool, Manchester United, Klopp