Rio backs raging Rooney

RIO FERDINAND does not see any need for Wayne Rooney to clean up his act - he loves the fiery Manchester United striker just the way he is.

For the second time in a week, the red mist descended on Rooney when he followed up his four-letter tirade on England duty in Belfast by getting himself sent off in Wednesday night's Champions League draw with Villarreal.

Even Alex Ferguson admitted Rooney left referee Kim Milton Nielsen little alternative other than to brandish the red card when the £27m striker sarcastically applauded his initial caution right under the Dane's nose.