Soccer: The target of Wayne Rooney's petulance that earned him a red card against Montenegro has vowed to support the striker should he appeal against his ban.

Miodrag Dzudovic, the man kicked by Rooney in a Euro 2012 qualifier in Podgorica, claims he will speak on behalf of the England forward if he challenges UEFA's decision to suspend him for three games.

As things stand, Rooney will be forced to sit out the entire group stage at next summer's European Championship.

Dzudovic believes that punishment is harsh and claims he would be willing to offer his support in any effort to get the suspension shortened.

"I don't think it was fair (the punishment)," he told the Daily Mirror. "He just was not thinking in that moment and after that he realised what he had done. He realised immediately what he had done and he apologised to me.

"It was really painful. I had a slight swelling after the game but I didn't have a bruise. I wasn't shocked because I wasn't aware of the kick at that moment."

The Football Association has got three days after receiving Uefa's full report to decide whether to appeal.

Dzudovic is hoping he will get the chance to line up against Rooney again at Euro 2012 - as he attempts to guide his side through the play-offs.

"Yes sure, I would like to play against him," he added. "He is a really great player and his team is always a pleasure (to play against)."