Former England captain Wayne Rooney has ignited a festive food fight after revealing his highly unconventional Christmas dinner choices, leaving fellow pundits and football fans utterly divided.
Mushy Peas Cause Immediate Uproar
During a conversation on his BBC show, The Wayne Rooney Podcast, the ex-Manchester United striker was asked about his Christmas plate. His immediate declaration of "mushy peas" prompted instant criticism from co-hosts Kelly Somers and former Aston Villa striker Dion Dublin. Somers bluntly stated it was a "first red flag," insisting mushy peas belong solely with fish and chips.
Rooney, undeterred, elaborated on his full festive spread, which further baffled the panel. He also includes sweetcorn and carrot and turnip mash, alongside turkey. In a move that may shock traditionalists even more, the football legend confessed he opts for new potatoes over roast potatoes and famously foregoes gravy altogether.
Panel and Public Reaction
Dublin's response to the combined mushy peas and sweetcorn was one of pure disbelief, calling the combo "weird" and "awful." Former England manager Sam Allardyce and comedian Kae Kurd were also part of the stunned discussion.
The controversy quickly spilled onto social media, where fans were split on Rooney's festive faux pas. One supporter defended the choice, writing, "Mushy peas deffo go on a roast," while another simply lamented, "Bad that Wayne." The debate highlights the passionate and personal traditions that define the British Christmas dinner.
A Festive Jumper Saves the Day
While his dinner plate drew ire, one element of Rooney's Christmas attire united everyone in appreciation. His Christmas jumper, featuring a grumpy-looking Roy Keane and the phrase "Praising Santa for delivering presents?"—a playful nod to Keane's famous "That's his job" comment—was widely praised, offering a rare moment of consensus in the culinary clash.
