Ronaldo pays lip service to criticism
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Cristiano Ronaldo has declared he is unconcerned by suggestions that he looks disinterested at Manchester United, with the Portugal star instead claiming he is fully focused on succeeding at Old Trafford after a tumultuous summer.
Ronaldo scored 42 goals last season but, after eventually seeing a possible move to Real Madrid collapse due to United’s reluctance to sell, injury has restricted him to just three goals in nine games this season.
Some observers also picked up on his non-celebration when scoring in the 4-0 win over West Brom on October 18 and it has been suggested that his general demeanour is not right after being denied the chance to make what he himself described as a ‘dream’ move to Real.
But when accepting the FIFPro World Footballer of the Year award on Monday, Ronaldo insisted that he is happy at Old Trafford and that he is taking no notice of the fingers being pointed in his direction.
“If I smile it is because I smile. If I don't it’s because I don't,” Ronaldo told the club’s official website.
“People are always writing things about me. It is up to them; for me it is not a problem.
“I will just try to play well and do my best. I am just focused on playing good football.”
“Of course, [Sir Alex Ferguson] was the main factor for keeping me here,” Ronaldo added. “But what happened in the summer is finished. My head is focused on the club.
“My focus is solely on playing well for Manchester United and winning The Premier League and Champions League again. The summer is finished. My head is always here in the club.”