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Cipriani: Don’t call me rugby’s Ronaldo
Chris Jones, Evening Standard29.09.08
Danny Cipriani, who could return to action on Wednesday night, has tried to damp down his celebrity image by claiming: "I am not rugby's answer to Cristiano Ronaldo."
Cipriani will make his comeback after four months out with a serious ankle injury when playing for London Wasps in their Premiership match against Bath at Wycombe knowing his fame both on and off the pitch is reaching new heights.
The 20-year-old has recently hit the headlines thanks to a new relationship with actress/model Kelly Brook, while a weekend Sunday magazine cover shoot had him dressed like James Bond and surrounded by beautiful women.
But Cipriani said today: "I don't go clubbing so much these days and people are just trying to label me.
"I don't really understand it but I suppose people have a job to do.
"I'm a very focused guy and while it's very flattering for Lawrence Dallaglio to say I could by rugby's Cristiano Ronaldo, I'm not trying to be the answer to anything.
"I just want to be me and play rugby. Ronaldo is a quality player and, yes, it's a nice label to have attached to you. But all I'm thinking about is getting on to the pitch again."
