Manchester United midfielder Nani believes that England will struggle to progress beyond the group stages at Euro 2012 because of Wayne Rooney's suspension.

Rooney is banned for the Three Lions' Group D encounters with France and Sweden as a result of his red card in England's 2-2 draw with Montenegro in October.

Nani told The Sun: "Rooney is a key man and two matches without my United companion could be too much for England.

"Roo is angry about his absence because he knows he's the man to score goals and he won't be there working for the team.

"I sincerely want England to reach the quarter-finals but it's not going to be easy."

Rooney's last goal for England was on September 2.