Birmingham coach says Rooney in same league as Platini, Zizou

LONDON - Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is clearly relishing the challenge set for him by Sir Alex Ferguson, even as compliments pour in after he played a pivotal role in Man U’s 1-0 victory over Birmingham on Sunday.

Birmingham City manager Alex McLeish complimented Rooney by pitching him in the same company as former French football players Michel Platini and Zinedine Zidane.

“He’s a huge talent, a natural footballer. You get the Zidanes and the Platinis of this world - I’ve seen them over the years - they are just naturals, and Rooney is like that. They are difficult to coach,” The Daily Express quoted McLeish, as saying.Rooney’s so hard to pin down. We did say if he comes deeper don’t be too concerned, although you have to close him down because if he faces up he has a vicious shot,” he added.

McLeish appreciated Rooney’s quick reaction when his 34th-minute header struck the post to tap the rebound past Birmingham goalkeeper Joe Hart and defender Franck Queudrue.

“He did well for the goal, drifting off Franck Queudrue to get his header in. It was Franck’s only mistake of the game. But, I can’t criticise my players too much because we were playing against some world-class players and I can take confidence from this performance,” McLeish said. (ANI)