AC Milan star Mathieu Flamini says his side will not make special plans for Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney in Tuesday's Champions League tie.
Rooney has been in inspired form this season but former Arsenal midfielder Flamini said Milan can cope with him.
"Fear is not the word. Of course we have to be careful because we know he is a great player who can score at any time," Flamini told BBC Sport.
"There are no special plans for Rooney, just to concentrate and be strong."
Rooney has scored 24 goals for club and country this season, turning in a series of superb performances along the way as United battle to hold on to their Premier League crown and reach a third consecutive Champions League final.
However, Flamini, who played against Rooney several times during his time in England's top flight with the Gunners, said Milan coach Leonardo would not make the mistake of underestimating United's other attacking talents.
"We have to focus on him but also on the rest of the team because Manchester United attack with many players," he added.
But United manager Sir Alex Ferguson could not speak highly enough of Rooney's contribution this season and believes the England striker is in the best form of his already impressive career.
"We build up heroes very quickly," stated Ferguson.
"We are peculiar because the players, like David Beckham, who come through the ranks are always viewed as better than those you buy.
"But Rooney is also regarded as that kind of player. Although he came from Everton, the fans will always look at him as one of the players who has grown up with us.
"He has been fantastic this season and, without doubt, his form this season has brought him to the high point of his career.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
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