Ronnie: Give Ronaldo respect

Ronaldinho has called for compatriot Ronaldo to be shown more respect.

The Real Madrid man has been the subject of his fair share of criticism this season, especially from his own fans at Real Madrid who have been frustrated by his inconsistent form.

However, fellow Brazilian Ronaldinho - who has had praise lavished on him for his displays at Real's arch rivals Barcelona this campaign - feels much of the negative press has been unwarranted, but believes it will ultimately benefit Brazil come the World Cup.

The Barca idol feels a Ronaldo with a point to prove could be one of the stars of this summer's showpiece in Germany.

"A player of his (Ronaldo's) standing, who does his job every weekend, deserves more respect and a little more peace," Ronaldinho told Deutsche Welle.

"But all this criticism is good for us Brazilians because it gives us more motivation and he will be one of the big names this summer.

"It will be Brazil's World Cup. I am not thinking about myself and doing well or badly, I only want to give my best so that we might be world champions."