England icon Wayne Rooney has disclosed his frustration with UEFA over repeatedly being chosen for random drug testing during the 2016 European Championship. Rooney, who concluded his international career as England’s top scorer with 53 goals, represented his country in six international tournaments before hanging up his boots in 2018.
In his column for The Times, Rooney revealed that he was left ‘fuming’ by UEFA’s selection process during Euro 2016, where England suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat to Iceland, leading to their elimination. According to Rooney, he was selected for drug testing after every game, which frustrated him to the point of smashing up the testing room, an action for which he received a bill and a warning from UEFA.
Rooney also described the aftermath of the Iceland defeat as a ‘national disaster,’ with then-manager Roy Hodgson resigning on the spot and Sam Allardyce taking his place. Despite the backlash from the press and public, Rooney took the criticism in stride, acknowledging that a loss to Iceland warranted such responses. He also recalled Hodgson’s resignation, stating that the manager informed the team of his departure and asked Rooney to address the press before walking out.
Euro 2016 marked Rooney’s final tournament appearance for England, as he retired from international duty before the 2018 World Cup in Russia, concluding a remarkable 15-year career with the Three Lions.
Wayne Rooney was left frustrated by UEFA’s random drug testing selection process
England’s shocking exit against Iceland was Rooney’s final tournament appearance
Rooney’s revelations offer a glimpse into the challenges and frustrations faced by players during major tournaments, where every decision and outcome is scrutinized. Despite the disappointing end to his international career, Rooney remains one of England’s greatest forwards, leaving a lasting legacy with the Three Lions.