Wayne Rooney lifts lid on Wagatha Christie drama ahead of Jamie Vardy reunion
All eyes will be on St Andrew's on Monday, as Birmingham City host Leicester.
Although it may seem like an ordinary Championship fixture, this clash has a big subplot. That's because it's the first meeting between Birmingham boss Wayne Rooney and Leicester striker Jamie Vardy since the Wagatha Christie trial was settled in July 2022.
Back in 2019, Rooney's wife Coleen publicly accused Vardy's wife Rebekah of leaking private stories about her to the press. Rebekah rejected Coleen's claim and the libel case ended up at the High Court three years later, with Rebekah on the losing side.
The Wagatha Christie trial dominated headlines and captured the public's imagination. TV documentaries and dramas have even been created since. The topic is now back in the spotlight, but Rooney tried to play it down during his pre-match press conference.
"I think what is important is we don’t get dragged into a sideshow about everything that has happened in the past, which everyone is aware has been dealt with from a legal point of view," said Rooney. "My job is to focus on Birmingham trying to win the game."
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Rooney is under huge pressure to do just that. Birmingham were sixth in the Championship when the former England captain replaced John Eustace as manager in October, a decision which most fans disagreed with due to their lofty position in the table.
Rooney has won just two of his first 10 games in charge to see the Blues plummet down to 16th position, although they did win their most recent outing at Cardiff on Wednesday. They are just six points above the relegation zone, leaving fans concerned.
Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy were involved in a lengthy legal battle (Getty Images)What's your opinion on the Wagatha Christie case? Let us know in the comments below!
Leicester, meanwhile, are top of the Championship and 11 points clear of Leeds in third. The Foxes suffered a shock relegation last season but are widely expected to make an immediate return to the Premier League, with Vardy leading their attack.
The former England striker is expected to miss Monday's game through injury but could still be at St Andrew's to watch his team-mates in action. Rooney added: "I played with him for England, the same as I played with many players for England.
"He is not someone who I have ever had a relationship with, outside of being away on a training camp or being in games with him. I respect Jamie Vardy a lot - I think he is a fantastic player - he still has a lot to offer Leicester.
"In my opinion, Jamie Vardy is a fantastic player and has been for many years, a great servant for Leicester. Ultimately, the game is about Birmingham going to try and win the game. Anything else, there is nothing really to talk about."
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