Ferguson won't rule out Ronaldo return

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Ronaldo began a new phase in his career on Monday night when he made his debut for Real Madrid in a scrappy 1-0 win over Shamrock Rovers. Real paid a world record £80million to let Ronaldo fulfil his childhood dream and turn out for the Madrid giants.

But Ferguson said: "He may come back, you never know. Sometimes it happens that way. He loved United. If you look back at the six years he had with us, he never missed training."

He added: "That's one of the things he has above all other players - he was never injured, he always played.

"And his best is yet to come. He is only 24."

Many United fans have already claimed they are happy to see Ronaldo go given his increasingly individual approach, particularly as it allows Wayne Rooney to resume the central attacking berth he craves.

However, Ferguson is not joining those now attempting to rewrite history.

Describing Ronaldo's exit as "a massive loss", the United manager paid a glowing tribute to the player he still regards as number one on the planet, even if the title which currently belongs to the former Red Devil is likely to be inherited by Lionel Messi this winter.

"Cristiano is a massive loss," said Ferguson. "I have nothing but praise for the boy. He is easily the best player in the world. He is better than Kaka and better than Messi. He is streets ahead of them all.

"His contribution as a goal threat is unbelievable. His stats are incredible. Strikes at goal, attempts on goal, raids into the penalty box, headers. It is all there. Absolutely astounding."