Rooney criticises Paredes for attempting to get Kane sent off

Wayne Rooney described Argentina's Leandro Paredes as "ridiculous" for attempting to have England captain Harry Kane sent off during their World Cup semi-final.

The BBC broadcast footage at half-time showing Kane covering his mouth while speaking to referee Ismail Elfath, prompting Paredes to seek a dismissal for the England striker.

This summer's tournament has already seen two players sent off for covering their mouths, but in both cases, it occurred while confronting an opponent.

Miguel Almiron was the first to receive a red card for Paraguay against Turkey, followed by Piero Hincapie of Ecuador in their match against Mexico.

BBC presenter Mark Chapman clarified the distinction, stating: "The rules are that if you put your hand over your mouth and say something to another player. It looked like he was saying it to the referee." Joe Hart labelled Paredes' actions as "pathetic".

He commented that Kane "was talking to the referee and trying to be clear with him. It's so difficult to communicate out there. Harry Kane is just trying to have a personal conversation with the referee. I get it, of course, they're going to do anything they can to try and win this game. But come on, just win the game by scoring more goals."

Rooney also expressed his disapproval, saying: "I think it's ridiculous." However, he was pleased with England's defensive performance in the first half, recognising that "Lionel Messi is going to have moments in this game. We have defended really well. We have been resilient, we have got bodies behind the ball. I think the next step is - can we take the ball off Argentina and dominate the ball a bit more?"

Hart singled out Elliot Anderson for commendation, stating: "I've loved how the England players have reacted and stood up to the battle. Anderson has chased the great man Messi around the field and not given him an inch. He has moments, of course he had, but that set the tone. That is exactly what you need in a game like this. You have got to stand up for yourself." Regarding the match overall, he noted: "Argentina are keen on rhythm not being a thing, they were very aggressive and on the front foot from the first few minutes. England have had their moments, they have looked threatening, but it is such a tight game."

Source: Daily Mirror