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Strategist Sir Alex Ferguson admits that Wayne Rooney is struggling to cope with increased media attention.
The footballer became a regular face on the front pages of tabloids after getting involved in a sex scandal with a prostitute.
"I don't think he's lacking in confidence in his abilities, but the boy finally understands how much attention is being paid to him as a person," Ferguson said to "Gazzetta dello Sport."
"Wayne realizes what it means to be in the spotlight for non-football related issues. He can't go anywhere without being watched by cameras or paparazzi. He wants to play and enjoy football, but all that attention really bothers him."
And he added: "He would like to compete freely, but he is hindered by the tabloid newspapers."
