Ronaldo ‘100 per cent fit’ to play Germany
Cristiano Ronaldo insists he is ‘100 percent fit’ and ready to help Portugal break their losing streak against Germany in Monday’s key World Cup clash.
The 29-year-old Ballon d’Or winner has laboured with a knee and thigh problem recently, but took a full part in Sunday’s final training session in Salvador.
“I have been practising for a few days, which I couldn’t do if I was injured,” said superstar Ronaldo ahead of the Group G clash.
“I’d like to be 110 percent, but I am at 100 percent and ready to help the national team.
“Obviously, I would like to play without pain, but in my entire career I have always had injuries and knocks to deal with, but I am ready to play.”
Ronaldo was dismissive of media reports which implied he would not be fit for the Germany clash. “The press say whatever they want, I have been playing at a high level for years and I am used to those unhappy statements,” he said.
PHOTO: AFP
The Arena Fonte Nova clash is a re-run of Portugal’s Euro 2012 opener against Germany, when they lost 1-0, while the Germans have beaten the Portuguese at three of the last four major tournaments.
“Obviously the historical record has been positive for Germany recently, but I remember a recent case when Real Madrid couldn’t beat Bayern Munich and that changed,” said Ronaldo, whose Real beat Bayern in this season’s Champions League semi-final.
“I hope this is the year Portugal change things against Germany and maybe tomorrow is when that will happen.”
Source: AFP
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now