Wayne Rooney hit with three-match ban

Wayne Rooney will miss England's entire group stage in the Euro 2012 finals next summer after being served with a three-match ban by UEFA.

The Manchester United striker was sent off during the Three Lions 2-2 draw with Montenegro last week, after what was deemed a deliberate kick on Miodrag Dzudovic.

UEFA's rulebook states: "Suspension for three competition matches or for a specified period for assaulting another player or other person present at the match."

The blow comes after the frontman was handed a mandatory one-match ban with the red card, and questions will be raised over whether Rooney should be taken to the tournament at all.

The lengthy suspension leaves manager Fabio Capello with the decision on who will replace the former Everton frontman.