Fit-again Pepe raring to get back to action

Ronaldo is best in the world says Portugal defender

Real Madrid defender Pepe insist that he is back to full fitness ahead of this weekend’s match with Mallorca, while adding his voice to those claiming Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the world.

Having struggled with various injuries this season, a recent bruised tibia has kept Pepe out of domestic action in recent weeks, although the former Porto stopper was able to play for Portugal against Greece last midweek.

“I am fine now,” Pepe told a press conference in Madrid. “I was hurt playing against Valencia. I spoke to the doctors and they told me it was a bruised tibia. I followed the treatment they recommended and that’s why I played with the national team. The pain then came back, but I’m fine now.”

The problem was the latest in a string of niggling injuries which have disrupted the 25-year-old’s first season at the Bernabeu, but Pepe has been well received in the Spanish capital and hopes to build on his positive impact next season.

“I am extremely grateful with the reaction I’ve had because playing for Real Madrid and gaining people’s confidence isn’t easy,” he said.

Injury frustration

“Honestly, I have never been injured this frequently. Very rarely was I hurt with Porto. Did I have a bad pre-season? I don’t think so. Football players aren’t machines and we can get hurt. Missing matches isn’t fun, but that’s life. We have to continue working hard in order to avoid future injuries.

“I hope next year will be better because this year everything was new to me. I won’t get hurt as often and I’ll see more playing time.”

Meanwhile, Pepe was once again asked about international colleague Cristiano Ronaldo, but while happy to praise the Manchester United man, the defender resisted invitations to comment on the possibility of Ronaldo becoming a Real player at some point in the future.

“He (Ronaldo) is mentally and physically strong, he’s an important player for his club. And he scores a lot, and that’s why I believe he’s the best in the world right now. Madrid going for him? There are a ton of signings reported every day, but we have a good squad and it’s up to the club to decide once the season ends.”