It was around this time last year that AC Milans Kaka came off the winner in a two legged dual against his nearest rival for the crown of world player of the year. Although Cristiano Ronaldo drew first blood and scored in the first leg at Old Trafford which in the end help United secure a 3-2 home victory, the night belonged to Kaka who twice scored and who twice exposed the back four with breath taking speed, technique and skill. He carried on his incredible form at the San Siro where in the rain scored another clinical goal helping Milan reach the final. Kaka had won the dual emphatically.
Forward a year later, and one of the two players on that drenched San Siro pitch is still on top of his game and has in fact improved. Cristiano Ronaldo has had another remarkable season. He has scored an outstanding 37 goals in all competitions. His goal last week against Roma embodied his form and character at present- determined, persistent and unstoppable. He has put on valiant displays this season where he has constantly outshone, but has played his part as a team player.
Two seasons ago it was a very different story. During a world cup quarter final match pairing Portugal against England, Wayne Rooneys' challenge on Ricardo Carvalho prompted Ronaldo to rush over to the referee and call for action against his United team mate. Rooney was sent off and cameras caught Ronaldo's cheeky wink to his team bench as if to say job done. Fearing a backlash on his return to England many reporters and sports insiders believed Ronaldo was on his way out United, especially with reports of Real Madrid showing interest. But if not for the guidance and intervention of Alex Ferguson, i might not be writing this article. Fergie who experienced a similar incident with David Beckham, convinced Ronaldo not only to be made a scapegoat for Englands failure to win the match, but to turn the boos into standing ovations.
Ronaldo has improved vastly since he first joined United, incorporating deadly free kicks, mazy runs, accurate shooting and headers into his game, making him a threat from virtually any position. He has also managed to maintain his form from start to finish, make an impact in important games and make a vital contribution whether its goals or crosses. This year he deserves the accolade of world player of the year, and with youth on his side we can expect to see him in contention for many more.
