Wayne Rooney dad vows to clear name after alleged betting scam arrest

Wayne Rooney's father has vowed to clear his name after being arrested as part of an investigation into an alleged betting scam.

The probe was launched after Motherwell midfielder Steve Jennings was sent off during a game against Hearts last year. A number of bets placed on the player receiving a red card were deemed suspicious.

Wayne Rooney Snr, who was among nine men arrested yesterday, was later bailed by Merseyside Police. The Manchester United star's uncle was also arrested.

"Mr Rooney vigorously denies all of these allegations," lawyers acting for Rooney Snr said in a statement. "We are co-operating fully with the investigation. No further comment will be made at this time."

All nine have been bailed until January 2012, pending further inquiries into the alleged plot.

Meanwhile, England manager Fabio Capello has said that a "relaxed and calm" Rooney will lead the team in their Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro tonight (October 7).

"He is sure a solution will be found to this personal problem in a very short space of time," Capello said, while captain John Terry added: "It is important for him to go out there and play his football, which he loves doing. He will always be fully focused on the pitch. That is all that matters to us."