Newcastle United midfielder Kevin Nolan doesn't believe Manchester United star Wayne Rooney is no hard case.
Both players grew up on Liverpool's tough streets - Nolan as a Red and Rooney a Blue - and have earned reputations for being hot-heads.
But Toon midfielder Nolan, who faces Manchester United striker Rooney at Old Trafford tonight, reckons appearances can be deceiving.
Nolan, 28, told The Sun: "It's a Scouse thing where we act all hard but we're not really. We just get frustrated.
"Ever since I was young I've always wanted to be a winner, no matter what.
"One day you're in a mood and just kicking off and arguing with everyone and, the next day, you're loving every minute of it."
He was sickened that Roo was booed when he was substituted for England at Wembley on Wednesday.
Nolan added: "The lad has got something special so I can't understand why people knock him.
"I am just full of admiration for what Wayne has done. Being a Liverpool lad, it's great to see.
"Rooney will be a big threat against us because he's United's main man - but you can't forget their other 10 players as they're all top internationals."
