Wayne Rooney's 16-year-old son Kai has already received criticism despite not playing a single senior game of football for Manchester United

Kai Rooney's mum, Coleen, has leapt to the Manchester United youngster's defence after he received the first putdown of his blossoming career. The 16-year-old is, of course, the son of legendary United striker Wayne, who happens to be the club's all-time leading goalscorer.

But the teenager is carving out a career of his own at Old Trafford, having re-joined the club's youth ranks at the age of 11. Last month, the young Rooney reached an important career milestone by signing a first-year scholarship contract with United, allowing him to continue studying while pursuing his football career.

The next big step in the forward's career would be to sign a professional deal when he turns 17. However, before he has even played a single game for the first team, Kai has been targeted by trolls through no fault of his own.

It appears there are those who have taken issue with Rooney's flourishing career, believing he owes it all to his dad's legendary achievements.

Coleen was left gushing after her son signed his scholarship deal last month, commenting underneath an Instagram post: "Brilliant boys," along with a fire emoji, a love heart and clapping hands.

But critics hit back, with one user commenting: "Only because he's Rooney's son," whilst someone else added: "That nepotism better pay off!"

Yet, Heatworld reports that Coleen has hit back at the keyboard warriors and those criticising her son. The 40-year-old reportedly concedes that her sons may be "nepo babies" but insists they have still worked hard and deserve their success.

A source was quoted as saying: "Kai has just signed a professional contract with Man United, so Coleen's going to be helping with deals and media appearances.

"Cass enjoyed modelling with her on the Primark Campaign – he loves the camera, so she wants to get him more modelling gigs. Coleen knows there'll always be people who will call her boys nepo babies, but she doesn't care.

"She's brought them up to work hard and make the most of the opportunities that come their way – which is what a good mum should do."

Kai is the oldest of the couple's four children. His brothers are Klay, aged 13, Kit, aged 10, and Cass, aged eight. The eldest has already made six appearances for the United Under-18s, having debuted in the age group at 15 in a 1-0 win against Everton last August.

Sadly, he suffered a season-ending injury in March, which left him out of action for United's FA Youth Cup final against Manchester City. His side lost 2-1.

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