WAYNE ROONEY says Italy won't know what's hit them when they come up against Daniel Sturridge tomorrow.

SUPER STURR: Rooney has tipped Sturridge to surprise Italy in tomorrows clash

The England star claims his strike partner is a handful for any defence in the world.

Sturridge has four international goals in his 12 appearances for his country and enjoyed a sensational season at Liverpool. where he was on the mark 23 times.

"His goalscoring record is incredible," said Rooney.

"He's unpredictable, and that makes him hard to mark for defenders. That's a quality of his.

"He has turned into a top, top striker and it's great to see.

"Brendan Rodgers deserves a lot of credit for his progress. He's been at Manchester City, Bolton and didn't get a chance at Chelsea, where he played out wide on the right and then was left out.

"He's been at Liverpool and played every game."

SAS: Rooney is hoping to emulate the relationship Sturridge has with Suarez for England

Sturridge has spoken about how he has already built up an understanding with Rooney, despite starting just seven games together.

And Rooney said he would love it if they can match the goal-laden strike partnership Sturridge struck with Luis Suarez at Liverpool.

"They've certainly been the best two frontmen in the Premier League this season," he said.

"It's easier at a club, where you have more time together, but we've had time to work on stuff where we haven't in the past. Hopefully we'll see the benefits of that.

"You try to talk. Even in training, when some things aren't on, you try and communicate to try and get that way of playing.

"All the forwards do that, working as a team."