Former striker Ally McCoist says 39-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo would no longer be good enough to start for England as he plays at his sixth Euros.
- Ronaldo slated after Euro 2024 start
- Ageing superstar deemed over the hill
- Not good enough to get in England team
WHAT HAPPENED?
McCoist is clear in his verdict on Ronaldo, using an England comparison. The retired striker stated that “father time” has finally caught up with the Portugal superstar as he inevitably nears the end of a glittering career.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Roberto Martinez was questioned for selecting Ronaldo, who was famously benched by predecessor Fernando Santos during the 2022 World Cup. But the Portugal boss has been vocal in his support of the ageing legend, who has played 90 minutes in each of his country’s matches so far. He hasn’t scored but did assist Portugal’s third in the comfortable win over Turkey.
WHAT ALLY McCOIST SAID
Speaking to BoyleSports, who offer the latest Euro 2024 betting, McCoist said: “Saying Cristiano Ronaldo wouldn’t play for England, I think it’s probably right. Five or ten years ago he walked in and it would be him and 10 others, but father time has caught up to him, as it does to everybody. I think that’s where he is at this moment in time, and I don’t think he gets in the England starting 11.”
WHAT NEXT FOR PORTUGAL & RONALDO?
Already assured of qualification for the knockout stage as Group F winners, Portugal will complete their opening round fixtures by facing Georgia in Gelsenkirchen on June 26. With one eye on a last 16 tie to come in July 1, coach Martinez may be tempted to rotate his team, both resting his starters and handing opportunities to fringe players. That could see Ronaldo in particular begin on the bench, although Martinez may not be willing to give his critics any fuel whatsoever.
