London, Aug 2: Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney heaped praise on his former club-mate Cristiano Ronaldo stating that the Real Madrid forward is a special footballer and one of the best in the world.

"I'd say there are two that stand out and they're Paul Scholes and Cristiano Ronaldo. Paul Scholes is one of the best midfielders of all time. His passing, vision and the way he controlled the tempo of games was incredible," Rooney told Man United's official website.

"Cristiano is a special player and he has gone on to be one of the best in the world. Some of the things he used to do in training and then take into games was unbelievable, he'll always be remembered as one of the greats of the game."

Rooney played in a midfield role under Louis van Gaal last season, but since taking over at Manchester United in May, new head coach Jose Mourinho has made it clear he sees the 30-year-old's future in the hole behind the striker.

Rooney admitted that working under the Portuguese has given him extra motivation ahead of the new season.

"I'm really excited to be working with Jose this season as he's one of the best managers in the world and it's an exciting time for Manchester United," added Rooney, who has been capped 115 times by England.

"I like to think I'm always motivated as a player but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a bit more motivated when a new manager comes in, I'm sure all the lads will be happy to be working under Jose and also eager to impress," he signed off.

The England captain, who has scored 246 goals in 466 games since joining from Everton in August 2004, faces his old side on Wednesday.

IANS