FEW WOULD ARGUE that Cristiano Ronaldo is the single most talented player at this summer’s European championships and, with Lionel Messi’s Barcelona missing out on La Liga and Champions League success last season, leading his Portugal team to victory over holders Spain would further strengthen his claim for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
After the Real Madrid scoring phenomenon headed home the winner against the Czech Republic last week, the RTE panel discussed their feelings on whether Ronaldo deserves to be placed alongside the all-time footballing greats.
Eamon Dunphy, who was often critical of the player during his Manchester United days, finally seems convinced of his brilliance but, along with elder statesman Giles, still feels Ronaldo lets himself down by showing petulance and failing to track back to help out his team-mates at times.
Sadlier added: “He is the best in the tournament on his day. He has flaws, weaknesses and things that would drive you mad but you would want him in your team.”
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