Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney denies claims he dived to win their penalty in Saturday's win over Arsenal.

The allegation he cheated is something the 23-year-old strongly rejects.

"Everyone who watches me play knows I am an honest player," he said. "I play the game as honestly as I can. If the referee gives a penalty there is nothing you can do. It is a penalty.

"If they want to take punishment further it is down to UEFA and the people who run the game. As players you just want to play."

Arsenal intend to appeal against Eduardo's punishment, with Arsene Wenger particularly aggrieved because he believes the Croatian was touched by Celtic's Artur Boruc.

There have certainly been far worse instances this week alone, Emmanuel Eboue being a prime example.

However, Rooney does not believe the problem is any worse now than it has been in the past.

"Diving has been in the game for years," he said. "Probably the coverage the game gets now, with all the cameras around, it gets highlighted a bit more. But it hasn't got any worse."

He continued: "England has always had a good record of being honest.

"It is important you try and play honestly.

"You don't like to see anyone cheating. It is not fair on the fans or the opponents."