He had the chance to come of age at the 2006 World Cup, though one of the memorable images of the tournament was his wink at the bench after Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney was sent off in a game against England. He also came in for fierce criticism for diving, which resulted in him being booed at games and it cost him the Young Player of the Tournament award.

He only scored one goal at Euro 2008, but after former Manchester United assistant coach took over with Portugal, Ronaldo has been named captain, though some would argue he is not their most influential player.

Strengths: Fast and tricky, Ronaldo possesses a thunderous dipping, swerving shot and is one of the most dangerous set-piece exponents in the game.

Weaknesses: Goes to ground far too easily which attracts the ire of supporters.

Career high: Winning the Champions League with Manchester United in 2008, and subsequently being named FIFA's World Player of the Year.

Career low: The negative publicity about his "simulation" cost him the best young player gong at Germany 2006.

Style: Ronaldo will take on any defender with searing pace, and mesmerising footwork to boot. His ability to beat a player and whip in crosses makes him a feared opponent. Add to that the way his free-kicks swerve with pace and power and this winger would be an asset to any team, past and present.

Quotes: "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." Sir Alex Ferguson, July 2009.

Trivia: Cristiano's name Ronaldo came from his father's favorite actor, Ronald Reagan.

Soccernet says: It is time for Ronaldo to truly live up to his star billing on the world stage.