Derby County's signing of Wayne Rooney in a player-coach role has been marred by criticism over him wearing number 32Red because of the team's sponsorship with betting firm 32. Former UK Minister of Sport Richard Caborn branded the decision as "crass" and further evidence that the gambling industry is exploiting the 2005 Gambling Act in their favour. Rooney's £100,000 ($121,000) a week contract with Derby was instrumental in the club receiving the record-breaking sponsorship offer, according to its owner Mel Morris. But Caborn claims that the betting tie-in should be condemned by football authorities and the government.
Derby County's signing of Wayne Rooney in a player-coach role has been marred by criticism over him wearing number 32 because of the team's sponsorship with betting firm 32Red. Former UK Minister of Sport Richard Caborn branded the decision as "crass" and further evidence that the gambling industry is exploiting the 2005 Gambling Act in their favour. Rooney's £100,000 ($121,000) a week contract with Derby was instrumental in the club receiving the record-breaking sponsorship offer, according to its owner Mel Morris. But Caborn claims that the betting tie-in should be condemned by football authorities and the government.