• Euro 2012

Nani throws support behind under-fire Ronaldo

ESPN staff
June 15, 2012
Nani claims Cristiano Ronaldo is calm about his form for Portugal © PA Photos
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Nani has rallied to Cristiano Ronaldo's aid following major criticism of the Portugal captain.

Ronaldo had a stellar season domestically as Real Madrid won La Liga, but his form for his country has been patchy and he was hounded by Denmark supporters during Portugal's 3-2 win. The forward passed up a couple of gilt-edged chances and fired a spiky response to journalists' questions following the game.

Portugal coach Paulo Bento leapt to Ronaldo's defence and his former team-mate at Manchester United, Nani, has done likewise.

"He's okay," Nani said. "He's happy we won the game, there is nothing to worry about.

"In the game, everyone misses opportunities. He had a great opportunity to score, he didn't score, but we still have the next game. Maybe next game he can decide the game for us.

"We need everyone on his best because Cristiano doesn't play alone and we have fantastic players on this team. Of course, he's very important for us. [But] he's all right. He's training very well.

"He defends, he attacks, he didn't score from the opportunity he had but I'm 100% sure he's going to help the team and that everybody who plays will do the same."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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