Wayne Rooney has said that having to answer questions on his recent off-field antics is "a shame" following his impressive display in Manchester United's victory over Feyenoord.
The England international hit at out the "disgraceful" recent press criticism last weekend, accusing certain reporters of writing his obituary.
It comes in the wake of footage obtained by The Sun showing Rooney worse for wear at a wedding party at England's team hotel during the international break, with the Three Lions skipper drinking until 5am just three days ahead of a match.
Having returned to scoring ways in this evening's 4-0 win over Feyenoord at Old Trafford, questions soon turned to whether his first-half strike felt particularly sweet after all the recent talk.
The 31-year-old was not best pleased, however, telling the BT Sport reporter: "All that [talk] is created by people like yourself asking questions, making a big deal out of nothing. I didn't set foot in the wedding and it's a shame to have to speak about it on nights like this."
Rooney's behaviour was described as "out of order" by former Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp, although many past and present players have defended the England ace.