Giggs- Lay off Rooney

Ryan Giggs has joined the conspiracy theorists who believe referees are making a trophy target out of Wayne Rooney.

The Manchester United striker was stunned to learn yesterday that he must serve a three-match Premiership ban for his recent dismissal against FC Porto.

Rooney could barely believe he had been red-carded at the time for his aerial challenge on Porto defender Pepe in Amsterdam and has since claimed some officials are honing in on any minor indiscretion in order to make a name for himself.

Dutch referee Ruud Bossen submitted a 23-page report to the Football Association emphasising why he felt he was correct to send off Rooney, and United team-mate Paul Scholes, during the four-team tournament earlier this month.

While the three-man independent disciplinary panel set up by the FA to hear United's appeal against the verdict concurred with Bossen, Giggs is adamant the official was acting on reputation rather than fact.

"Generally, Wayne has handled himself brilliantly," said Giggs.

"At such a young age, the spotlight is on him but he has handled that more than appropriately.

"But, on occasions like this, when the referee is trying to make a name for himself, it is disappointing."

Neither United, nor Alex Ferguson have made any public comment on Rooney's suspension.