England boss Fabio Capello says there is a "big difference" between striker Wayne Rooney and players such as Lionel Messi, Kaka, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

There has been ongoing debate as to whether the Manchester United forward warrants a mention among the world's most celebrated players, but the former Juventus and Real Madrid boss believes the 24-year-old is just plain different in comparison to other top names.

"Messi dribbles and has imagination," said Capello, according to ITV.

"Ronaldo is fast and shoots from long distance. They play wide. Kaka has to arrive in the area from midfield.

"Rooney is different in style. He is a centre-forward," continued the Italian. "He can play alone in attack. He holds the ball very well. He dribbles. He can shoot from long distance. He can score goals with his head.

"But there is another difference between these players and Rooney. He presses a lot. He runs a lot. The others don't do that. It is a big difference."

Rooney has been in red hot form this season, having already scored 28 goals thus far this term.