Gary Neville branded Cristiano Ronaldo ‘illegal’ as he oozed over the Portugal captain ahead of Saturday’s Euro 2024 clash against Turkey. The Manchester United icon was baffled after learning his former team-mate’s career goals tally, leaving his fellow pundits in stitches as he paid tribute.
Ronaldo has guided Portugal into his sixth European Championships this summer and will undoubtedly be keen to add to his five World Cup appearances in 2026.
The 39-year-old earned his 209th international cap against Turkey at the Westfalenstadion in Germany, scoring 130 goals across his previous 208.
As ITV previewed the crunch Group F match, host Mark Pougatch revealed that the broadcaster’s ‘stat man’ had uncovered that Ronaldo’s career goal tally stood at 835.
He was then interrupted by Neville, who corrected him by stating that it was actually 895, prompting laughter along the panel in the studio.
The ex-United defender then added: “I can’t believe it… 895 goals. I mean, that is, it’s not right, that. I mean, I knew he’d scored a few goals, but, honestly…
“His professionalism, he’s never taken a chance once at any point in his career with his preparation.
“He’s a phenomenon and one of the greatest we’ll ever see. His dedication, his determination to win is unbelievable, and 895 goals in bordering on illegal!”
Ronaldo scored five goals in 31 appearances after bursting onto the scene at Sporting Lisbon; then he joined Manchester United.
Across his two spells at Old Trafford, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner netted 145 times in 346 games. He is part of the Premier League Hundred Club, managing 103 in England’s top flight.
The most prolific period of his illustrious career came at Real Madrid, where Ronaldo recorded an incredible 450 goals in 438 appearances.
His rate didn’t slow down too much after leaving the Bernabeu for Juventus, adding 101 to his tally in 134 outings.
MORE TO FOLLOW
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football. Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.
We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.
