The half-time analysis of Brighton vs Nottingham Forest took an unsual turn as Gary Lineker took the time to reveal a fear of former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney
Gary Lineker exposed Wayne Rooney's fear of fish live on television during BBC's FA Cup coverage of Brighton vs Nottingham Forest. The former Manchester United and Everton forward was on duty to provide his expert analysis to proceedings but soon found himself defending a phobia to the rest of the studio and fans at home.
On the pitch at the Amex Stadium, Nottingham Forest were able to prevail on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes. While extra time saw some excitement and a disallowed goal, the entirety of the match was not always quite as thrilling as the final moments.
The opening 45 minutes saw a cagy affair and it appears that attention turned elsewhere during the course of the game, even for those present. And Lineker certainly wasn't afraid to bring what Rooney had revealed into the public's attention.
After returning from action on the field for the half-time break, the Match of the Day anchor found time to divulge what he had learned in Sussex. Rooney was quickly left awkwardly rubbing his legs.
"We've still got little time to talk It wasn't the most compelling first half but what we did learn earlier, during that first half, was that Wayne Rooney is scared of fish," Lineker said. "Tell us about that fear of fish Wayne."
Theo Walcott and Glenn Murray didn't stifle their laughter, as Rooney also offered a sheepish chuckle. "I just don't like them," he offered.
Lineker wasn't letting the ex-England record goalscorer off of the hook quickly however. The veteran broadcaster attempted to explain his line of questioning.
"I'm only saying it because we're only three or four miles from the coast here," Lineker added. "It's the big fish," Rooney sought to clarify. "I do like fish."
Ahead of the game, Rooney had criticised Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo's decision to leave the likes of Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi on the bench.
"I am shocked," the Manchester United legend told BBC Sport after the teams were announced. "The FA Cup is such a prestige tournament and to rest players in a quarter-final...
"They're trying to get Champions League football, but as a player you want to play and try get momentum. If I was a fan I would be fuming. You want to win silverware and this is a great opportunity."
The former Birmingham and Plymouth Argyle manager was not afraid to backtrack following Forest's progression however. "You've got to give Nuno some credit," he admitted.
"We said before the game we thought he made a mistake resting some players, but when they go through you have got to give them credit."
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