Footballer Wayne Rooney is launching a libel claim against The Sun newspaper over stories that suggest he booked a holiday which would take place during the closing stages of the World Cup before England was knocked out. The two articles, published in June and July, alleged that Rooney confirmed a holiday two days before the team’s last match in the competition. The player denies this and argues the stories damaged his personal and professional reputation. Rooney is seeking an injunction against any repetition of the allegations.