Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo rubbishes Henrik Larssons 'diving' jibe

28 March 2009 14:41
Ahead of Sweden's World Cup qualifying match against Portugal, former Celtic, Barcelona and United striker Larsson reopened the debate over whether Ronaldo exaggerates tackles to his side's advantage. [LNB]"The referee must be careful about Ronaldo's diving, and I will speak with him about it before the game," Larsson said this week. [LNB] Related Articles'Ferguson's legacy is secure'Neville planning for retirementFergie's United successorsOne more year for Ferguson?Champions League final: Manchester United and Chelseas route to MoscowLiverpool manager Rafa Benitez tight lipped while Cristiano Ronaldo dives, apparentlyBut Ronaldo, 23, told the Daily Mail: "It doesn't bother me what Larsson says because I know I don't dive, and that is all that matters. [LNB]"I may get kicked but I don't dive. It seems everyone wants to have a go at me over that but I don't care."[LNB]Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz's finds himself under pressure ahead of the tie, with a win essential to keeping their qualifying campaign afloat. [LNB]Portugal are currently sitting fourth in their group and are level on points with Sweden, who have a game in hand. [LNB]They then face Albania on Wednesday and Queiroz hopes that a return to traditional football will give his side the edge. [LNB]"We have to play in the Portuguese style," he said this week. "Practising attractive, modern football with movement, speed, fantasy and creativity. These are surely arguments which will be difficult to counter."[LNB] 

Source: Telegraph