Fergie - Roo is sensational

Sir Alex Ferguson branded Wayne Rooney 'sensational' after the Manchester United striker helped rout AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League.

Rooney bagged a brace to take his personal tally for the season to 30 as the Red Devils romped to a 4-0 success to complete a memorable 7-2 aggregate triumph.

The display of the England international completely overshadowed the return of David Beckham to Old Trafford, with the midfielder remaining on the bench until the 64th minute.

Park Ji-Sung and Darren Fletcher were also on target for United as they cruised into the quarter-finals, but it was Rooney's display which earned the manager's praise.

He said: "It was a great bonus for me to take him off because he is still carrying a little bit of an injury. Nothing serious, but with a game coming up on Sunday it was a good moment for us.

"His performance was just a continuation of his form for the last two or three months.

"It is just sensational."

Deciding factor

Rooney and United's second goal came just seconds after the interval when he slotted home from Nani's curling pass, which Ferguson felt was the pivotal moment in the match.

He added: "I think the deciding factor was the goal after half time.

"From that moment I think the tie was finished and we were able to relax and play good football and keep our concentration.

"Milan were forced to try and get something from the game and kept leaving us openings to attack. It was a difficult night for them after that.

"When you beat Milan 4-0, not many teams have ever done that, I don't know if anyone has done that. It was a fantastic night for us."