Exclusive by Phil McNulty Chief football writer

Everton's David Unsworth has issued a chilling warning to Premiership defences as he declared: "Wayne Rooney will be even better this year".

Rooney is tipped for greatness Campbell out for a month

And Unsworth hit back at veteran Paul Merson, who claimed Rooney had enjoyed his "free season" and would be easier to handle this term.

Unsworth played a key role as Everton finished seventh last season, only missing out on a Uefa Cup place on the final day of the season.

And, in an exclusive interview, Unsworth insisted 17-year-old Rooney will have a massive influence on Everton's fortunes this term.

He told BBC Sport: "He will be even better than last year. I don't agree with what Paul Merson has said - Paul Merson should concentrate on himself and people in general should leave Wayne alone.

The things Wayne does in training are amazing and he will be quicker and stronger this season Everton's David Unsworth

"I know he already is a big star, but when you've got the quality he has, and you see it day in and day out like I do, people should keep their opinions to themselves.

"Wayne will do his talking on the pitch. He will never have a quiet time or a quiet season. He will always be there making headlines for his football.

"He's got amazing skill, he's dedicated and he wants it. All this 'free season' stuff is rubbish. It will be tough for him, but it will be tough for everyone."

Rooney is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, but is nearing full fitness again.

And Unsworth believes Everton, under the guidance of manager of the year Moyes, are determined to better last season's showing.

HAVE YOUR SAY While it is certainly true that teams know what to expect from Rooney, it doesn't mean he will have a poor season From Ooz Join the debate

"As long as we don't lose sight of what got us our success last year, be even more committed, fitter and do more pressing, then we will be looking to improve.

"We had a team plan for the majority of the season and we stuck to it. We have set our standards now. We finished seventh, but we felt we should have finished higher.

"Everyone said what a good season we had, but we were absolutely gutted at missing out on the Uefa Cup on the final day.

"We think we can do just as well again. Some people have said we won't do as well, but I remember pundits tipping us for relegation this time last year so we take it all with a pinch of salt."

Everton start their campaign at FA Cup winners Arsenal - but Unsworth is undaunted by the task.

"We played well against the top teams last season and we played really well against Arsenal.

"We will go there to have a right good go and we go to HIghbury expecting to get something."