Manchester United boss David Moyes insists Wayne Rooney did not deserve a red card for their draw at Cardiff City.
He escaped dismissal after lashing out at Jordan Mutch early into the game.
In United colours, Rooney has not been dismissed since March 2009, when he was red carded for two bookable offences at Fulham.
"Wayne Rooney's form and his attitude and his temperament have all been first class," said Moyes.
"I couldn't fault any of them.
"There will always be times when players have little bits when it doesn't always go. On that occasion, Wayne was probably a little bit fortunate.
"But the referee made the right decision.
"I want Wayne to have fire in his belly. He plays better when he is tough and aggressive.
"I don't want to change Wayne Rooney that's for sure.
"I don't want him to be kicking at anybody but I want him to keep being aggressive. I want him to keep challenging and running.
"At the moment we are seeing a really good Wayne Rooney who is in top form and scoring goals as well."
