David Beckham described Wayne Rooney as among the world's best as Manchester United put his AC Milan side out of the Champions League on Wednesday night.
Rooney scored twice as United romped to a 4-0 last-16 second-leg win to secure a 7-2 aggregate victory and a place in the quarter-finals as Beckham's return to Old Trafford ended in defeat.
"He's such an exceptional talent," Beckham told ITV.
"I think without a doubt he's one of the best, if not the best, player at the moment along with (Cristiano) Ronaldo and (Lionel) Messi."
Beckham entered the fray midway through the second-half, coming off the substitutes' bench to a standing ovation.
But the contest was already over.
"It was a disappointing night because we lost the game but returning here is always special," added the former England captain.
"It was unbelievable. I have to say thank you. It was really incredible.
"It was nice to be back, a disappointing night but nice to be back."
