Ronaldo rejects cheat label

Manchester United's Portuguese wing wizard has gained a reputation for being a diver since his summer arrival from Sporting Lisbon, but the talented 18-year-old claims that he never deliberately cons referees.

''I don't agree when people talk about diving,'' Ronaldo told the Daily Mirror. ''They are other people's opinions, but I'm no diver or cheat.

''If I fall over, it's because I always get a slight push.

''I have the tricks to beat players in England and I won't change my game or style.''

Ronaldo has faced a barrage of criticism this season over his theatrics, gaining bookings against Leeds and Stuttgart for diving.

Last week's FA Cup tie with Northampton saw Ronaldo embroiled in further controversy, when the step-over maestro was accused of unfairly winning a penalty.

Despite the adverse reaction to Manchester United's latest young starlet, Sir Alex Ferguson has nothing but praise for his wide-man.

''The boy is quick and his movement is so fantastic opponents find it hard to deal with him,'' said Ferguson.

''We've been really impressed with the way he's settled in this season and we've probably used him more than we thought we would.

''But it's important to pace young players and that's why we let him go home for a break. It means he'll be fresh now until the end of the season.''

Despite settling on the pitch, Ronaldo has admitted to having faced difficulties in becoming accustomed to Manchester and its weather.

''It's going well now and sometimes I can even understand the manager,'' continued Ronaldo. ''But I don't like the weather and the cold.

''The language barrier is also difficult, although I don't think it affects me on the pitch.

''Unfortunately, I can now understand Roy Keane now when he shouts.''