Ambrosini hails Rooney class

Ambrosini: Rooney has improved

AC Milan captain Massimo Ambrosini has hailed Manchester United's star striker Wayne Rooney as "a complete player" ahead of his side's UEFA Champions League round of 16 second-leg clash at Old Trafford.

The former Everton man struck twice in United's 3-2 victory in the San Siro in the first leg, which made the Italian media sit up and take notice of the Premier League's top scorer.

Rooney's stock has risen considerably over the last few months, with both Fabio Capello and Sir Alex Ferguson declaring the 24-year-old to be among the best players in the world.

After his recovery from a minor knee injury, Rooney seems certain to play an integral part at Old Trafford on Wednesday and Ambrosini knows that fit-again Rooney will pose a threat.

"Rooney is considered to be a star player on the world stage," said the Italy international.

"He is better than in the past. He has improved and is now a complete player. He is one of the best in the world at the moment."

Invention

Ambrosini's words were echoed by coach Leonardo, who must try to find a way of stopping United's talisman, whilst retaining enough attacking invention in his own side to help them become the first team to beat the Red Devils in a two-legged game after losing the opener on home soil.

"Rooney is a fixed point of reference in the United team," said the Brazilian.

"It is incredible to see the way he has developed, grown and matured as a player.

"Maybe it has had something to do with Cristiano Ronaldo leaving because it meant he needed to step up."