Samir Nasri: "Wayne Rooney will make big difference"

Samir Nasri has stated his belief that Wayne Rooney will have a big impact for England when he returns to action.

The Manchester United striker sat out the first of a two-game ban against France in the Euro 2012 Group D opener in Donetsk, which ended 1-1.

Nasri, who scored Les Bleus' equaliser at the Donbass Arena, described Rooney as "top class" and believes that he could make a big difference to the Three Lions' chances in Eastern Europe.

"[Rooney] will make a big difference," said the 24-year-old. "He is a top-class player, someone who can make a difference in a big game.

"He proves that every single week for Manchester United. It will have a big impact when he comes back for the last game of the group stage."

England next face Sweden, who were beaten 2-1 by Ukraine, on Friday.