Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has “similarities” to Brazil legend Pele.

The former Everton frontman, who is expected to start against Benfica in the Red Devils' first group match in the Champions League, has scored eight goals since the start of the season.

"If you look at Pele, for instance, he was a very aggressive attacker also who could look after himself - so can Rooney," said Ferguson.

"They have similarities that way in terms of strength, speed, determination."

The 69-year-old also believes that the striker possesses the qualities of a number of infamous British talents.

"I think Wayne's a typical British player,” he added. "But there have been British players over the years who've had similar qualities that make them great players, whether it's Paul Gascoigne, George Best, Bobby Charlton or Denis Law.

"The similarities [between them and Rooney] are that the boy has great courage, he wants to play all the time and he has incredible stamina. These are added extras to the talent he has.”

The Premier League champions travel to Benfica for their first match in Group C tonight (Wednesday).