Edwin: Ronaldo inspired by boos
Edwin van der Sar believes that booing has only spurred Cristiano Ronaldo on.
Edwin van der Sar believes that any booing directed at Cristiano Ronaldo has only served to spur the winger to produce the finest performances in his Manchester United career.The Portuguese international was painted as a figure of hate in England following his part in Wayne Rooney's sending-off at the World Cup finals, but, despite being a favourite target of the boo-boys around the country, has been one of the stand-out performers of the Premiership campaign.
Ronaldo added two more goals to his tally in the 3-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday, and United keeper Van der Sar believes the abuse directed at the young entertainer is one of the reasons behind his stellar form.
"I wasn't in England after what happened with Cristiano at the World Cup but I can imagine what the papers and TV were saying," Van der Sar said.
"It was a country versus country situation and you do the best for your own country.
"The United fans have stuck with Cristiano and I think the opposing fans see the quality he has and the joy with which he plays the game.
"He will get some occasional booing but that's all right. I thank that only serves to drive Cristiano onto even higher ground, to greater heights.
"Cristiano hasn't let what happened and the reaction affect him at all. He is a very strong guy and has shown that this season."
Ronaldo has also suffered from accusations of diving during the current campaign, but Van der Sar believes that the former Sporting starlet is a more mature and rounded performer than ever before.
"Cristiano is getting better and better. He is still only young but he is more mature now as a footballer," said Van der Sar.
"He has loads of qualities with the ball but is more aware now in terms of his positional play, the runs he can make, the other players who make runs for him, and of creating space for other players.
"I think it is his most productive season so far, he is scoring more goals and delivering more crosses. He has been excellent for us."
Ronaldo has now scored eight league goals from the wing this season and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists the star should be ranked as one of the very best players in England.
"Cristiano could easily get us over 15 goals this season and he is certainly capable of achieving that," said Ferguson.
"He is unbelievable and in great form. He is as good as anyone in the country."
