Stereophonics have claimed responsibility for Wayne Rooney’s scoring ability.

Why may you ask? Well as Kelly Jones told BBC’s Newsbeat the Manchester United footballer was given a album sampler by the singer that instantly raised his game.

Rooney (a massive ‘Phonics fan) was so inspired by new album Keep Calm and Carry On that it has made him an even better footballer – or so claims Mr Jones (we sincerely hope he’s joking).

“I took the album to Rooney the week before the day they were playing Tottenham,” revealed Jones.

“He scored a belting goal that day as well and I can only put it down to the music really. Hopefully he’s going to cover his arms in lots of tattoos of the song titles – he’s a big fan.

“He liked a track called She’s Alright and he liked another one called Stuck In A Rut. He was just really excited by it. I’m a Leeds fan but starting to watch a lot of Man United games to see what his reaction to the music is.”

Rooney, of course, already has the rather fitting album title “Just Enough Education to Perform” (no laughing please) on his arm and famously had the band play at his wedding reception.

And with the Rooney’s seal of approval on the album it’s sure to be a goodie.

Now what’s this TMM hears about a 2010 tour?