Eusebio: Rooney can be world's best

Portuguese legend Eusebio thinks England will lose on Thursday, but the former Benfica star admits he will be backing England if Sven Goran Eriksson's men prevail from the quarter final showdown in Lisbon.

Eusebio, one of the best strikers ever seen in the game, was part of the 1966 side that was beaten by Sir Alf Ramsey's England in the World Cup semi-final, and made a huge impact on the tournament.

Nicknamed 'The Black Pearl', he was a terrific all-round centre forward but has paid Wayne Rooney some incredible tributes after witnessing the Everton striker's dramatic introduction to the biggest stage.

"I think I'm fine but I'm nervous," Eusebio told Sky Sports News.

"It's an important game against England. I hope for Portugal - for the people tonight it is D-Day. I believe in my national team but I respect England as they have a good team, good players and a good manager. But I'm still believing in Portugal tonight.

"I think it is a very, very difficult and tough game. I hope Portugal beat England but, if England beat Portugal, I will tell many English people, many of them in Portugal, that I hope to see England win. I'd wish them good luck for the championship."

Rooney is preparing for his latest screen test in front of the watching millions with yet more words of praise ringing in his teenage ears.

"He's a good player, a young player," enthused Eusebio. "I think he is 18-years-old and plays for the England national team.

"Everybody is afraid of strikers. He is strong, with good condition, he's physical, very strong and fights.

"He has everything to, one day, become the best player in the world.

"I don't like to compare (him with Pele) as Pele is Pele.

"I like Rooney, he plays for Everton, not my team in England, which everybody knows is Manchester United, due to my friend Bobby Charlton and Cristiano Ronaldo today.

"Rooney is still walking and listening to his manager. He must listen and follow. He has everything in football at his feet. He must respect people because they respect you.

"I'm very happy for this but I hope he doesn't score tonight!"