Germany legend Jurgen Klinsmann admits he's in awe watching Manchester United star Wayne Rooney in action.

Klinsmann believes Rooney has to be in contention for the game's Player of the Year awards later this year.

"So far, Wayne is playing a tremendous season," the 45-year-old told uefa.com. "He's really hungry for goals, and he wants trophies now. He looks calm; he looks confident. So if he continues like that, he might get a shot at the European Player of the Year award.

"His instinct is just tremendous.

"He can smell the ball; he knows where it goes, and he's always available for the team. He works hard, he runs backwards and helps defensively. He lives in the moment, and that's the best thing you can do as a football player."