Rooney's dad off the hook

London - The father of England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has been told he will face no further action in a police probe into a soccer betting scam, his lawyer said on Monday.

Wayne Rooney senior was detained at his home in Liverpool, northwest England, in October in connection with suspicious betting activity surrounding a Scottish Premier League match.

Eight other people, including Liverpool-born Motherwell midfielder Steve Jennings, 27, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud.

The investigation related to a match between Motherwell and Hearts on December 14, 2010, police said.

Jennings was booked during the match and then sent off for using foul and abusive language towards the referee.

Rooney senior's lawyer Anthony Barnfather confirmed Monday that police have told him that no further action will be brought.

"Mr Rooney senior has always vigorously denied the allegations and maintained his innocence throughout the investigation. He is delighted the matter has now concluded," he said.

Police have also dropped their case against Jennings.