“Wouldn’t speak to me with any respect” – Wayne Rooney aims criticism after Derby defeat

Derby County boss Wayne Rooney has questioned why fourth official John Busby “wouldn’t speak to me with any respect” during last night’s defeat to Cardiff City and criticised the “unacceptable” decisions that he feels cost his side the game.

Uche Ikpeazu’s 85th minute winner for the Bluebirds was a controversial one as both Festy Ebosele and Curtis Davies looked to be fouled in the build-up.

The goal was allowed to stand, though, meaning the Rams slipped to a third consecutive defeat and remain eight points adrift of safety.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Rooney did not hold back in his criticism of the referees decisions.

He said: “I have been (unhappy with the decisions) the majority of the season. It’s very frustrating because we’ve got a group of very good, young, honest players giving everything.

“Getting spoken down to, not getting given decisions. I said after the last game. I asked the fourth official earlier on before the decision on the goal. Why do they not give us any decisions?

“Is it something that’s getting spoken because of the situation that we’re in? I don’t know, I’m asking the question.

“I think it’s a clear foul. We have to defend better after that. Obviously, I know that but it is unacceptable.”

Derby have been deducted a total of 21 points this season and have a threadbare squad due to off-field issues but remarkably remain in the battle for Championship survival.

Rooney hailed his players for their efforts and accused the fourth official of not offering him any respect during the Cardiff defeat.

“What these young lads are doing, it’s inspiring,” said the Rams boss. “It’s inspired the city of Derby. It’s just frustrating that we’re not getting the luck at times but we’re not getting the