Fergie lauds brave Ronaldo
25 Nov 2008 - 08:05:04
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has lauded Cristiano Ronaldo's bravery after revealing the winger will face Villarreal against his better judgement.
The Portugal international was expected to miss United's Champions League trip to Spain on Tuesday night after limping out of Saturday's goalless draw at Aston Villa with an ankle problem.
But the 23-year-old returned to training on Monday and told Ferguson he was desperate to play at the Estadio El Madrigal.
"Cristiano got a lot of whacks on Saturday - a few cuts but nothing serious," confirmed the United boss.
"He wants to play and that is a problem. I would rather leave him out.
"When players show that enthusiasm to play you don't deter them you encourage it."
Meanwhile, Ferguson has rejected suggestions that Ronaldo is struggling to come to terms with his status as the world's best player.
Ronaldo reacted angrily to heckling from Villa fans after being substituted at the weekend which led to suggestions that last season's 42-goal top-scorer and reported world and European player of the year elect is struggling to cope with the weight of expectation.
"There has been some criticism of Ronaldo that he couldn't take it on Saturday," continued Ferguson.
"I wonder how many people take it when you are walking down the street and so many people hit you over the head with a baton? How many times can you take it?
"Tell me someone who likes getting abused? Will you please point them out to me.
"I thought he showed admirable courage on taking the ball on Saturday. He always does.
"He was tackled many, many times, most of the time fairly but there were a few occasions when he didn't get the right decisions.
"That is the mantle you carry when you are a great player. He knows that so he has to get on with it.
"He is a great player and he is a target for fans. But it is not a problem."