BBC SPORT
2009-09-30 @ 22:36:23
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has backed striker Wayne Rooney to establish himself among the best players in the world.
The Scot believes 23-year-old Rooney's current impressive form could be the start of a challenge to players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
"Wayne could easily get to that level," said Ferguson ahead of Wednesday's Champions League tie against Wolfsburg.
"He is blessed with some ingredients only great footballers have."
Barcelona's Messi, who scored against United in last season's Uefa Champions League final, is expected to succeed former Old Trafford winger Ronaldo - now at Real Madrid - as this year's Fifa World Player of the Year.
The Scot believes 23-year-old Rooney's current impressive form could be the start of a challenge to players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
"Wayne could easily get to that level," said Ferguson ahead of Wednesday's Champions League tie against Wolfsburg.
"He is blessed with some ingredients only great footballers have."
Barcelona's Messi, who scored against United in last season's Uefa Champions League final, is expected to succeed former Old Trafford winger Ronaldo - now at Real Madrid - as this year's Fifa World Player of the Year.