England manager Steve McClaren has described reports of a bust-up with striker Wayne Rooney as "an absolute load of rubbish".

Rooney and McClaren were said to have clashed following Saturday's 0-0 draw with Israel, a result which leaves England off the pace in qualification for Euro 2008

But the former Middlesbrough manager told said: "It's an absolute load of rubbish. What happens in the dressing room, happens in the dressing room. We get on well with each other."

McClaren also denied a rift with assistant Terry Venables, saying: "People are just trying to stir things. The togetherness of the squad has never been better. Terry gives me advice like all the staff do and he gives me great advice."

Rooney is said to have walked out of the dressing room after being singled out for criticism by McClaren, whose team have now failed to score in four of their last five matches.

Rooney has failed to score a competitive goal for England since Euro 2004 and McClaren is reported to have told the 21-year-old that he has not played well for his country for three years.

Rooney reportedly responded by throwing his boots and kit at the wall in frustration and it is reported the argument was so loud it could be heard in the Israel dressing room next door.

The former Everton forward endured a frustrating evening, failing to really get into the game and being shown a yellow card after a spat with Bolton defender Tal Ben Haim.