WAYNE ROONEY says he has ‘no relationship’ with Jamie Vardy outside of football.
The pair had been set to come face to face with each other for the first time since their respective wives’ famous ‘Wagatha Christie’ case.
It was a case that played out last year after Coleen Rooney alleged Rebekah Vardy had leaked stories about her private life to the press.
Vardy subsequently filed a libel lawsuit against Rooney and lost.
Birmingham manager Rooney had been set to face Leicester - where Vardy is playing a role in the Foxes’ promotion push.
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The pair were England team-mates - but both were involved in the court case.
But Vardy is not expected to play in the game after being out for two games with a knee injury.
However, Rooney has told his squad to forget the sideshow that would have come with the game.
The ex-England and Manchester United captain said: “The game is Birmingham City against Leicester.
“In my opinion, Jamie Vardy’s a fantastic player and has been for many years.
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“I played with him for England, but I played with many players for England. It’s not someone who I’ve ever had a relationship with, outside of being in a training camp or games.
“I respect Jamie Vardy a lot, he’s a fantastic player and still has a lot to offer Leicester.
“What’s important is we don’t get dragged into a sideshow. Everything that’s happened in the past, which everyone is aware of, has been dealt with from a legal point of view. My job is to now focus on Birmingham trying to win the game.
“He’s a great servant to Leicester and he’s a player we have to do a lot of work on to stop. He can really hurt you if you don’t.”
Man Utd icon Rooney seen at Wigan vs Hull supporting ex-Derby assistant Rosenior
