Soccer pundits Ian Wright and Alan Shearer are among those who have spoken out in defence of Wayne Rooney following the divisive reaction to photos published of him at a wedding.

Rooney's representatives issued a statement during the week, apologising for his behaviour at a wedding following England's win over Scotland, which was photographed and subsequently published in The Sun. 

After United's draw against Arsenal yesterday, Rooney followed up that statement with claims that the media were amplifying the story as a means of predicting the end of his career. Rooney branded the treatment as 'disgraceful' and he has received some support from respected members of the English football community.

Reacting to Rooney's words on Match of The Day yesterday, Ian Wright said:

"I'm pleased he's coming out with something like this. It is like he is fighting back. Fight back Wayne."

Former England captain Alan Shearer echoed those sentiments:

"All he has ever been is committed and available. If he was given the night off and he chose to stay in the hotel and have a few drinks then I don't think there's anything wrong with that.

"If he was told to go to bed by the manager and chose not to then he has undermined the manager and has to face the consequences."