MetLife expects operating earnings to grow sharply next year as the largest U.S. life insurer begins to see the benefits from its November acquisition of global life insurer Alico.

MetLife said on Monday that it expected 2011 operating earnings, excluding investment gains and losses, of $5.1 billion to $5.5 billion, or $4.75 to $5.15 per share. Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S on average expected earnings of $5.03 per share.

For this year, MetLife expects operating earnings of $4.26 to $4.36 per share, while analysts expected $4.28.

Based on the midpoint of the two ranges, the company expects a 38 percent earnings increase for next year.

For the current quarter, MetLife forecast operating earnings of $1.04 to $1.14 per share, while analysts expected $1.04.

The company also said it expected an improved operating return on equity of 11 percent for 2011.

(Reporting by Ben Berkowitz; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)