Infamy Infamy
'Infany, infamy - they've all got it infamy' - is a well-known line from one of those famous but terribly corny 'Carry On' films.
But the same paranoia is now affecting English football fans.
Following the news that star striker - Wayne Looney - will miss the Euro 2012 group stage - after being banned for all three matches following his red card against Montenegro.
Now the real question is not whether everyone has it in for England - but whether or not Rooney deserved to be sent off - for violent conduct.
And the answer to that question can only be - Yes - because he kicked out deliberately at an opposing player - and deserved to be sent straight off the field of play.
Missing one match because of a red card is automatic - but Rooney has form in this area - and the violent nature of his behaviour should not be ignored.
So a three match ban is not an overeaction to a gifted player - who is often petulant and impulsive when put under pressure.
The English Football Association is considering an appeal - which is understandable from one, very narrow point of view.
Because otherwise England will be without their best player for the first three matches - and risk not going through to the tournament's knock out stages.
But I have no sympathy with any such appeal - in fact I hope it fails.
Because Wayne Looney sets a poor example for young football players.
Englands best player is just a big baby who blames other people for his actions and failings - instead of taking responsibility himself.
Rooney's punishment is not harsh in the circumstances.
Yet by appealing the decision the English FA are indulging the player - and the supporters who continually make excuses - for his bad behaviour.
But the same paranoia is now affecting English football fans.
Following the news that star striker - Wayne Looney - will miss the Euro 2012 group stage - after being banned for all three matches following his red card against Montenegro.
Now the real question is not whether everyone has it in for England - but whether or not Rooney deserved to be sent off - for violent conduct.
And the answer to that question can only be - Yes - because he kicked out deliberately at an opposing player - and deserved to be sent straight off the field of play.
Missing one match because of a red card is automatic - but Rooney has form in this area - and the violent nature of his behaviour should not be ignored.
So a three match ban is not an overeaction to a gifted player - who is often petulant and impulsive when put under pressure.
The English Football Association is considering an appeal - which is understandable from one, very narrow point of view.
Because otherwise England will be without their best player for the first three matches - and risk not going through to the tournament's knock out stages.
But I have no sympathy with any such appeal - in fact I hope it fails.
Because Wayne Looney sets a poor example for young football players.
Englands best player is just a big baby who blames other people for his actions and failings - instead of taking responsibility himself.
Rooney's punishment is not harsh in the circumstances.
Yet by appealing the decision the English FA are indulging the player - and the supporters who continually make excuses - for his bad behaviour.
