FIFA WC: Rooney branded England's "preening prima donna"

London, June 20 (ANI): Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has been branded a "preening prima donna" who expects the side to be built around him and blames everyone else when things go wrong.

According to News of The World, England insiders in South Africa believe he is acting like a spoilt brat over his outburst at booing fans after the 0-0 flop against Algeria.

Rooney has issued a statement through the FA about his comments: "I am as passionate about the England team as anyone. Last night, on reflection I said things in the heat of the moment that came out of frustration of both our performance and the result."e added: "For my part I apologise for any offence caused by my actions at the end of the game."

But his apology will only go some of the way to easing resentment in the camp.

Our source said: "Unless Rooney changes his attitude, there is a danger it will continue to fester among his team mates who believe he has been over-indulged."

A senior England source said simmering tensions within the England camp are being blamed on the player's ego.Wayne came into the competition placed on the same podium as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo and thought he could eclipse them," he said.

"He believes the team should be built around him. And that's what Capello has attempted to do, even though it's meant Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard playing in a system that doesn't suit them. But he's done nothing to justify his billing.

Instead, he's been strutting around like a preening prima donna and having a go at the fans he's letting down so badly." (ANI)