Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he would not have become the world-beating player he is today had Sir Alex Ferguson not handed him Manchester United's iconic No.7 shirt.
For the first time, Ronaldo has revealed he initially chose the obscure No.28 shirt when he joined United four years ago - because it had not been assigned to any other player.
But Fergie told Ronaldo he was going to wear the number made famous by United legends such as George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona and David Beckham.
And Ronaldo, who has graduated to become one of the world's best players, admitted wearing the No.7 had inspired him.
"After I joined the manager asked me what number I'd like," said Ronaldo. "I said 28. But Ferguson said 'no, you're going to have No.7' and the famous shirt was an extra source of motivation.
"I was forced to live up to such an honour."
