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Tuesday, 22 May 2012 21:16 |
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First I think at 27, Ronaldo is at an age where most players come into their own on the international level. I think Mourinho has been good for him and its time for him to be a leader like Figo became during the 2000 Euros.
It does seem that Bento is getting the most out of Ronaldo right now. But in order to make it count we really need someone who will score goals at the striker position. Postiga/Almeida are good options but I think of some of the strikers that our opponents will have, i.e.Huntelaar, Von Persie, Gomez, even Podolski. Maybe Oliveira is the answer but he's only 20 years old.
I think it's a little unfair when people say that Ronaldo has been disappointing on the world stage. He doesn't score a goal a game like with Real but few goal scorer's numbers are as good as club level, because the competition is often tougher. Especially when your competition is mainly European. Plus, Ronaldo is more a winger with Portugal. So, he isn't suppose to score all the time.
I think after 2006 until recently, Ronaldo endured tough times with Portugal because of several reasons. Carlos Queiroz's system was too defensive minded. A little bad luck too at the 2008 Euros, meeting Germany early. And 2010 WC with a tough group and a defensive minded system again. Lastly, a general decline in talent with Pauleta, Figo retiring. Let's face it Simao and Tiago weren't world class talents.
At the same time, I think he has to have a good tournament to solidify himself as one of the great players of all time which is what he is. No one is a greater combination of skill, physical strength and goal scoring touch as he is. A truly complete modern player.
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