Ex-Man Utd star Saha hails Rooney & likens him to Sir Alex Ferguson

Ex-Manchester United midfielder

Louis Saha

feels

Wayne Rooney

has the potential to be a great coach. 

During his tenure at

, the former forward had to cope with several off-field issues, including the club's financial difficulties. 

But the ex-Three Lions star has handled the issue admirably and garnered a lot of acclaims, and Saha feels he shares a beneficial attribute with

Sir Alex Ferguson

, the club's legendary manager.

"It's a hard job for him at Derby but he's a tough cookie," Saha told 

.

"I don't know him as a manager but what I see in terms of his engagement, he's class.

"I've seen some interviews and some really passionate body language on the touchline.

"And he's got a lot of empathy, which is really important.

"This allows you to really see the weakness and strength of a player and then you're able to decide how to help.

"If you don't have empathy and you just ask someone to do what you require, you don't move forward.

"That was the main quality of Sir Alex Ferguson, so for that and so many aspects I think Wayne will do great.

"I think he's up for great things as a manager.

"No disrespect to Derby but I think when he gets another opportunity with a so-called bigger club, I think he will show great quality because he's very smart and dedicated."

While Rooney is thriving in his managerial position, Cristiano Ronaldo, Rooney's former teammate, is back in command of the

in the field. 

Despite his age, Saha is not surprised that the Portugal great is still performing at the highest level.

"I'm not surprised he's still doing well, even at 37," he added.

"In any situation, he's the one, still now, that is going to chase after the ball even after the 90th minute. Even when it's gone out of play.

"He wants to score. He wants to participate always. He's an amazing example.

"His stats speak for themselves. I'm very blessed and privileged to have played with him, as well as see him as a fan score so many for club and country.

"I don't think we will see a player like him again. I just don't see it. He's just an amazing professional. I wish many United players could copy and learn from him."

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