Wayne Rooney has hailed Luis Suarez as one of the world’s best players, as he prepares to face the Uruguayan on Sunday.
Manchester United host Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday, and there is also the prospect of Rooney and Suarez meeting again in this summer’s World Cup when England take on Uruguay.
And Rooney believes his opposite number should be held in the same regard as the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, after scoring 24 goals this season to put Liverpool in contention for the Premier League title.
Rooney and Suarez go head to head again on Sunday
"Suarez, for me, is up there with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the best players in the world," said Rooney.
"He has been that good."
Former Everton star Rooney has also been impressed with the form of his England strike partner Daniel Sturridge, who has formed a lethal understanding with Suarez at Anfield this season.
Having worked closely with Sturridge for the Three Lions, Rooney is well aware of his qualities and knows United will have to be at their sharpest if they are to halt the pair on Sunday.
"The two of them together have been in great form this season, we will have to do everything we can to stop them on Sunday," he added on MUTV.
"I think they are both fantastic players and obviously it is good to see Sturridge doing well because he has never really had a chance at his previous clubs.
"Brendan Rodgers has given him a chance and he has taken it with both hands. That is good for England as well."
The Three Lions will be back in action when they face Peru at Wembley on 30 May before heading out to the World Cup.Tickets are on sale now and you can buy them by clicking here.
