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Wayne Rooney has revealed - albeit in jest - that a beloved children's television personality influenced his choice to undergo a medical procedure. The football legend disclosed on his BBC podcast that CBeebies' favourite Mr Tumble played a role in his vasectomy decision.

On the most recent instalment of 'The Wayne Rooney Show', the 40-year-old Manchester United legend admitted he couldn't bear watching the programme with another child. "I hate Mr Tumble," he said.

"I was in the dressing room for Match of the Day and he was sat next to me. The reason I hate him, well I don't hate him for what he does, is just that I've had to sit through it four times with every kid.

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"It's got to the point now where I just can't. He's the reason I've got the snip.

"I couldn't have another kid to go through it again."

The unexpected subject arose while discussing holidays on the podcast - with co-host Kelly Somers mentioning that Mr Tumble performs at Butlins. Rooney shares four sons with wife Coleen; Kai, Klay, Kit and Cass.

The admission left the studio audience roaring with laughter - as football content creator Steve Bracknell in turn joked: "There's your headline! Mr Tumble made me have the snip - Rooney."

Podcast listeners also shared their own difficulties with the programme.

Rooney underwent the procedure in 2018, not long after welcoming their fourth son, Cass, into the world. During 2023, Coleen confirmed they both believed their family was now complete.

"Me and Wayne talking about him having a vasectomy," she said. "He said after this baby that's it, we're not having any more, and Wayne went in and got the snip - so I knew for sure we wouldn't have anymore children."

Meanwhile, Rooney's eldest son, Kai, is following in his father's footsteps at United's academy.

The 15-year-old has shown promise at youth level and could, potentially, make his bow at Old Trafford in the near future. Kai can play as a striker or winger.

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