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Cristiano Ronaldo is in “spectacular shape” ahead of Portugal’s World Cup opener against Ghana, according to team-mate Ruben Neves.
The 37-year-old missed Thursday’s friendly against Nigeria due to gastroenteritis but was back in training on Saturday. He has also been out of action at club level due to illness.
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But Neves made it clear the forward was ready to shine ahead of the tournament in Qatar, which is controversial for the reasons outlined in this article.
He said: “From what I’ve seen in training, he’s in spectacular shape.
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“He doesn’t worry us at all, we as a team know perfectly well what we need to work on so that each individual stands out on gameday.
“If we’re good as a team, Cristiano will be phenomenal.”
Ronaldo has been under focus in recent days after a televised interview with Piers Morgan. He said Manchester United had betrayed him, while The Athletic reported the club are now exploring terminating his contract.
But Neves insisted it had not impacted the Portugal dressing room.
“Sure, it’s impossible for us to walk around without been asked about the controversy, but I don’t think there’s any controversy at all between us in the changing room,” he added. “We have a spectacular environment right here.”
Portugal face Ghana on Thursday.
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Read more: Portugal held on to beat Ghana 3-2 in their opening World Cup match.
Read more: Cristiano Ronaldo became the first man to score in five World Cups with a penalty against Ghana
(Photo: Getty Images)
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