Ronaldo next United legend

From Steve Griffiths in Manchester
October 02, 2006

MANCHESTER United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes Cristiano Ronaldo can become one of his club's all-time greats.

Portugal winger Ronaldo was in majestic form as United went top of the English Premier League with a 2-0 win over Newcastle United at Old trafford today (AEST).

He set up the opening goal for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who also got the second for his first home league strikes in more than three years, and tormented Newcastle throughout with his skill and pace.

Former Sporting Lisbon star Ronaldo was close to leaving Old Trafford for Real Madrid in pre-season, after the English media was critical of his part in United teammate Wayne Rooney's sending off in the World Cup quarter-final.

But Ferguson's assistant, Carlos Quieroz, persuaded him to stay and the United boss is confident he can go on to emulate the success of United legends like George Best, Bobby Charlton and Eric Cantona.

Ferguson said: "Nothing fazes Cristiano. He has been marvellous all season and, while it is difficult to say with any certainty, maybe what happened to him at the World Cup could turn out to be a defining moment in his career.

"I could see the potential for greatness the first time I saw him in training and he has a great future ahead of him.

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder admitted his side had no answer to Ronaldo and said: "Everyone, and I mean everyone, is finding it hard to cope with Cristiano Ronaldo.

"Along with Wayne Rooney and Thierry Henry, he is undoubtedly one of the most dangerous players in the Premiership."