Cristiano Ronaldo scoops three more individual awards

“He is the best in the world now” – Ferguson

Cristiano Ronaldo added to his growing collection of awards by winning both the Manchester United fans’ and players’ player of the year awards on Sunday evening.

Just hours after clinching the Premiership title against Wigan, Ronaldo was presented with the prestigious Sir Matt Busby fans’ player of the year award for the third time in his five years at the club, as well as being recognised by his team-mates with the other decoration.

“The fans have been fantastic with me. Not just me but every player. They give us extra motivation to play better. The supporters help us all the time and I have to say thank you.”

Ronaldo, who also won the award for goal of the season for his sensational free-kick against Portsmouth, added: “It’s a fantastic feeling. I didn’t expect to win three awards. I’m very happy. I must say thank you to the supporters and my team-mates. It’s been a great night for me.”

When asked for his thoughts on the man he signed almost five years ago, United boss Alex Ferguson made reference to Ronaldo’s relentless desire for self improvement as a major factor in his rise.


United’s Portuguese trio celebrate Premiership title



“The thing about any young player when you come to United is to have the desire to improve all the time. I think they have the platform here: a fantastic stadium and great history. There’s an encouragement for every young player.

“Throughout the years there has been a model for young players coming to United: they have to have the courage to play and the technical ability. Every time we search for a young player they have to have these qualities.

“When we saw Cristiano against us that night in Lisbon, there was no way we were coming away from that stadium without him. Since he has come, he has taken on the challenge of improving himself with every training session. It’s been a great part of his development.

“He practises all the time to be the best in the world, and I think he is the best in the world now.”