Eusebio praises Ronaldo

Portuguese legend Eusebio has lavished praise on Cristiano Ronaldo.

Although Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson may have been less than happy that Portugal were placing more demands on precocious teenager Cristiano Ronaldo, the winger's international displays have brought glowing praise from the legendary Eusebio.

Eusebio, who played against United in the 1968 European Cup final at Wembley for Benfica, has joined the chorus of approval for Ronaldo's performances in the World Cup qualifying wins over Latvia and Estonia.

The Old Trafford idol scored once and set up the other goal for Pauleta in the 2-0 win in Riga before finally breaking the deadlock in the 75th minute of the 4-0 triumph over Estonia by heading past Sunderland's Mart Poom.

Although Ferguson is concerned that Ronaldo is carrying a hamstring strain, the player showed no ill effects during the two games.

"If he can get there (among the game's greats) depends only on him," Eusebio told O Jogo. "The road is clear.

"He must have his feet firmly on the ground and the future, again, only depends on him.

"He must always look to better himself but still know his place and respect his elders.

"And maybe never smoke nor drink alcohol!"