Ronaldo rise fanned by staunch support
Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham believes Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo has become one of the best players in the world because of fan power.
The Portugal winger was widely condemned at the World Cup last summer after appearing to play a part in team-mate Wayne Rooney's dismissal for England. There was even speculation Ronaldo would leave Old Trafford, but he has become a cult figure with the fans - just as Beckham did after he was sent off against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup.
And Beckham told MUTV: "What he has done is incredible, considering what he actually came into this season...the thing with Wayne and everything like that. But when you are a Man Utd player, when you're out there at Old Trafford and when the fans can see you want to play for the club, they will give you the support what you need."
He added: "That's what has made him the player [he is today]. Ronaldo has been one of the best players of the season in the Premiership.
"The first time I saw him was when England played Portugal and I knew United had someone special. When he was given the number seven shirt, I thought he is going to going to be one of the best players in the world and I think he's close to that now."
