WAYNE Rooney’s dug-out strop was caused by spitting Turkish fans and not because boss Sir Alex Ferguson substituted him.
The Manchester United striker fumed as he hurled a boot to the ground after he was replaced by Michael Owen midway through the second half of the 1-0 Champions League victory over Besiktas in Istanbul.
Rooney was clearly seen arguing with taunting Turks gathered above the United dug-out.
After he sat down on the bench the England ace threw his boot to the ground.
It was believed he was angry at being taken off at being taken off with the match still goalless.
But it emerged last night that Rooney has told friends he was hit on the forehead by spitting supporters who were taunting him.
Now the truth behind the angry outburst is out it seems Rooney showed great restraint by only throwing down his boot.
But no official complaint has been made to UEFA.