Ronaldo hails Fergie's human touch

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While the dream is unlikely to become reality given the twin effect of Ferguson's age and Ronaldo's continued desire to play for Real Madrid, it is clear the 66-year-old Manchester United boss was the key factor in the Portugal superstar remaining at Old Trafford for at least another season.

"I love the passion he has for football. If it were humanly possible I would always like to have him by my side, which shows how much affection, admiration and respect I have for him," said Ronaldo.

It was Ferguson who offered Ronaldo the chance to play for United at just 18, Ferguson who stuck by Ronaldo after his trauma at the 2006 World Cup, Ferguson who flew to Portugal for a heart-to-heart with the winger in July, and Ferguson who persuaded him he did have other mountains to climb with the Red Devils after all.

The winger added: "It makes me proud to know how much he thinks of me. And he knows I feel exactly the same way about him.

"Sir Alex Ferguson has been one of the most important people in my playing career, not only because of what I have learnt in sporting terms but also in human ones as well.

"He has always been like a second father to me at Manchester United and I know he will understand that there are times when a father has to worry only about what is best for his child."