Rooney Accuses Man United Fan of Seeking Attention Over Viral Haircut Challenge
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has accused a viral fan Frank Ilett of chasing attention after his unusual haircut challenge became a major talking point during United’s recent run of form.
Rooney said the focus should be on the team and their progress under interim coach Michael Carrick, rather than off-field distractions involving supporters.
“I’d put him to the other side of the country, he’s DOING MY HEAD IN.”
“We’re talking about Carrick and United trying to win their fifth game in a row and the whole thing is about this guy getting his haircut.”
The former England captain suggested the fan was enjoying the spotlight and might be unhappy if United kept winning and the attention faded.
“I bet he’d be devastated if United win the fifth game because all of a sudden he’s IRRELEVANT.”
Rooney’s comments have sparked mixed reactions among Manchester United supporters on social media, with some backing his view while others defended the fan’s harmless challenge.
The fan, Frank Ilett, popularly known online as The United Strand, had gone viral for refusing to cut his hair until United won five games in a row. His challenge reached 493 days and attracted huge attention online, with over 265,000 viewers watching his live stream during United’s Premier League clash with West Ham United.
Carrick’s first four games in charge ended in victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham and Tottenham, leaving Ilett just one win away from completing his challenge. However, United failed to beat West Ham, forcing him to continue the challenge.
Tomas Soucek gave West Ham the lead in the second half, while Casemiro had a goal ruled out for offside. United later equalised, but the draw ended their winning streak and left the fan “heartbroken” on his live stream.
“It’s tough,” Ilett said after the match. “It’s tough to think, really. We go again, I guess.”
With United failing to secure the fifth straight win, The United Strand will continue his haircut challenge, while Rooney’s blunt remarks continue to dominate debate among fans.
