Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United fans are still to see
the very best of Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 21-year-old has already scored 10 goals this season and
produced some sparkling displays as United have built up a
four-point lead at the top of the Premiership.
And Ferguson, who already rates the Portugal international as one
of the best players in the world, believes the best is yet to
come.
"He's 21 and I think he will get better," said the United
boss.
"He's showing maturity that we hope all young players start to show
and the realisation of their potential as they start to get
older.
"There are very few players who can play wide and attack players
like he does. Defenders are not used to handling that type of
player. That's why he is such a danger."
Ronaldo's form has been an even bigger bonus for United
particularly in the light of his involvement in the sending off of
Wayne Rooney during England's World Cup defeat by Portugal.
But Ferguson stood by his man then and is now reaping the
rewards.
"We had good experience of that because David Beckham went through
the same thing. He survived. The most important thing was to play
well and Cristiano has done that," Ferguson added.
The United boss celebrates his 65th birthday on New Year's Eve and
admits retirement is not on his mind.
"It is just another birthday, but the thing about 65 is that it is
a landmark in terms that people do collect their pensions then," he
added.
"I am waiting for the envelope to come through the door. But I feel
good and I feel fresh."