Wayne Rooney was in the BBC studio to provide expert analysis of Brighton vs Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup, but was soon left red-faced over a phobia that was exposed by Gary Lineker
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Wayne Rooney (second from the left) in the BBC studios
Wayne Rooney (second from the left) in the BBC studios(Image: BBC)
During the BBC's FA Cup coverage of the Brighton vs Nottingham Forest match, Gary Lineker cheekily divulged Wayne Rooney's unusual fear of fish on live TV.
The former Manchester United striker was part of the punditry team, ready to deliver his seasoned insights on the game, but found himself instead in the spotlight for his unusual fear.
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The match at Amex Stadium ultimately went down to the wire with Nottingham Forest sealing victory through a penalty shootout after an uneventful 120 minutes which included extra time thrills and a rescinded goal. During less captivating moments of play, it seems certain behind-the-scenes revelations stole some attention.
Taking advantage of the half-time interval, Lineker playfully disclosed what had been learned off-pitch in Sussex, leaving Rooney noticeably embarrassed as he nervously rubbed his legs.
"We've still got little time to talk It wasn't the most compelling first half but what we did learn earlier, during that first half, was that Wayne Rooney is scared of fish," Lineker announced.
"Tell us about that fear of fish Wayne."
Fellow pundits Theo Walcott and Glenn Murray couldn't suppress their laughter, and even Rooney let out an uncomfortable laugh.
"I just don't like them," he briefly explained.
Gary Lineker wasn't about to let Wayne Rooney off the hook though, as he continued: "I'm only saying it because we're only three or four miles from the coast here.
However, Rooney then clarified: "It's the big fish. I do like fish."
Before the match, Rooney had openly criticised Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo for benching players like Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi during an FA Cup quarter-final.
"I am shocked," declared the Manchester United icon while speaking to BBC Sport as the line-ups were revealed. "The FA Cup is such a prestigious tournament and to rest players in a quarter-final.."
"They're trying to get Champions League football, but as a player you want to play and try get momentum. If I was a fan I would be fuming. You want to win silverware and this is a great opportunity.
However, the ex-Birmingham and Plymouth Argyle manager showed his willingness to revise his opinion after Forest's success.
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"You've got to give Nuno some credit," he conceded.
"We said before the game we thought he made a mistake resting some players, but when they go through you have got to give them credit."