Scolari: Door open for Ronaldo

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Scolari coached Ronaldo with Portugal and described how he likes the Manchester United winger as a father likes a son, although they will be opponents on Sunday when the two Barclays Premier League rivals meet.

"Now he is one of the three best players in the world," Scolari said. "I said that two years ago, and I repeat it now. If he wants to change, I'll open the door to that."

He added: "When I was at Portugal, I had to choose three players every year (for FIFA World Player of the Year). One year I chose Didier Drogba as one of my three. Another year, I wrote John Terry. Another year I wrote Frank Lampard.

"Now these three players are with me, and that's very good for me. Maybe next season, Cristiano is with me. Very good."

Scolari's comment may have been tongue-in-cheek but he is aware of the threat Ronaldo will pose when United look to close their gap on Chelsea to three points.

Ronaldo, despite looking set to move to Real Madrid this summer, made his return from injury this week against Villarreal.

United fans overlooked the summer uncertainty and gave him a warm reception, acknowledging his efforts last season when he helped his club win the double while establishing himself as one of the finest current players.

"When I arrived in Portugal, Ronaldo was a kid. A young boy, 17 years old," Scolari said. "At that time, he had a good character.

"He was starting as a very good professional, but at that time he was already thinking about his future. Now, at this time of life, Ronaldo is mature and is better than one or two years ago."