Wayne Rooney may be spared the worst over his latest England red card, according to the referee who sent him off in the 2-2 draw against Montenegro.

Friday's result sealed England's place in the Euro 2012 finals, but there were fears the Manchester United striker would be banned for two - or even all three - of the first-phase group games.

Reckless: Wayne Rooney kicks out at Miodrag Dzudovic

However, German referee Wolfgang Stark said: 'Maybe it will help Rooney the way he acted by accepting my decision without any fuss.'

Rooney, who was also sent off in the 2006 World Cup quarter-final against Portugal, was dismissed in the 73rd minute on Friday after kicking Montenegro defender Miodrag Dzudovic.

Stark said: 'It was a straight red card. I had no hesitation. Everyone saw what happened and Rooney knew by his reaction. He accepted my decision without dissent and walked straight off the pitch.

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