St Mirren star Shaun Rooney ‘assaulted woman and made homophobic slur’ in city centre chippy bust-up
SUSPENDED footie ace Shaun Rooney was nicked over allegations he assaulted a woman and made an alleged homophobic slur in a city centre bust-up, we can reveal.
The 28-year-old defender was lifted by cops in Queen Street, Glasgow, after reports over an incident outside the Blue Lagoon chip shop.
Rooney, who dates British tennis ace Heather Watson, was suspended by the Paisley outfit after he informed them about an alleged incident on Thursday, September 19.
Prosecutors are currently considering a report submitted by officers who attended the alleged early morning assault.
Rooney began his career as a starlet at Dundee United and has enjoyed spells at Dunfermline Athletic, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and St Johnstone.
In a statement on Thursday the Paisley club said he had been suspended “on a precautionary basis” after disclosing the alleged incident.
They added: “The club will now undertake a full investigation into this incident and will make no further comment during this process.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “A 28-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with an assault on an 18-year-old woman and a breach of the peace against an 18-year-old man in takeaway premises on Queen Street, Glasgow, in the early hours of Thursday, 19 September, 2024.
“He was released on an undertaking to appeal at Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.
“A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”
Saints boss Stephen Robinson admitted the shock suspension of the defender is far from ideal for his side.
Addressing the situation, he said: “Well Shaun’s not available … so it’s not an ideal scenario for a manager, is it?
Shaun Rooney's career
- Early Career: Shaun Rooney began his professional football journey at Queen’s Park, a club known for developing young talent in Scotland. He made his debut in the 2013/2014 season, showcasing his potential as a versatile defender.
- Move to Dunfermline Athletic: In 2015, Rooney transferred to Dunfermline Athletic, a club competing in the Scottish League One at the time. His performances helped the team secure promotion to the Scottish Championship, providing him with valuable experience in a more competitive league.
- Queen of the South: Rooney’s career progressed with a move to Queen of the South in 2016. Although his time at the club was brief, he gained further exposure in the Scottish Championship, contributing to the team’s defensive line.
- Return to Queen’s Park: Seeking more playing time, Rooney returned to Queen’s Park on loan in 2017. This move allowed him to refine his skills and gain regular first-team experience, which was crucial for his development as a player.
- Inverness Caledonian Thistle: In 2018, Rooney signed with Inverness Caledonian Thistle, a club with a strong presence in the Scottish Championship. During his tenure, he became a key figure in their defence, helping the team reach the play-offs in the 2018-2019 season.
- St Johnstone Signing: Rooney’s performances caught the attention of St Johnstone, and in 2020 he made a significant career move by joining the Scottish Premiership side. This transfer marked a step up to Scotland’s top-tier football, where he continued to develop his defensive prowess.
- Scottish Cup Success: Rooney played a pivotal role in St Johnstone’s historic 2020-2021 Scottish Cup campaign. His solid defensive performances and crucial goal in the final helped the club secure the prestigious trophy, further establishing his reputation.
- Scottish League Cup Triumph: In the same 2020-2021 season, Rooney was instrumental in St Johnstone’s Scottish League Cup victory. His contributions throughout the tournament, including a decisive goal in the final, were key to the club’s success in achieving a domestic cup double.
- Transfer to Fleetwood Town: In 2022, Rooney moved to Fleetwood Town, a club competing in England’s League One. This transfer marked his first venture into English football, where he aimed to bring his defensive skills and experience to a new environment.
- Return to Scotland with St Mirren: In the summer of 2024, Rooney return to Scotland after agreeing a two-year deal with St Mirren.
“But these things happen and it gives other people opportunities and we’ll deal with it.
“He spoke to the club and made us aware about an incident and as the club said in a statement last night they are investigating that incident.
“I’m not really involved in that decision making, it’s a board level decision and I have got to concentrate on the football side of things.”
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