Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to silence those critics that suggest he is a flat-track bully.
United talisman ready to stand up to big-boys
Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to silence those critics that suggest he is a flat-track bully, starting with a match-winning display against Arsenal on Sunday.
Manchester United host a deflated Gunners at Old Trafford aware that victory would not only cement their place at the Premier League summit, but also effectively end their rivals' title tilt.
Despite scoring 37 goals this season and topping the goalscoring charts both domestically and in Europe, Ronaldo still has his critics.
The Portuguese has been accused of not performing in the games that really matter but as the season reaches its nadir, he should have plenty of opportunity to prove he is much more than a showman against lesser sides.
"Some people say I need to perform better in the big games," said Ronaldo.
"I respect their opinion, but I don't feel I need to prove anything to anyone.
"I've been very pleased with my own progress and also the progress of the team.
Progress
"I try to improve every season and I think this season has been even better than the last.
"I believe this squad is the best I've been involved in since joining United. It's more consistent and more mature than any other side.
"I'm a better player now than I was one year ago and definitely better than I was when I first came here.
"It's nice to be recognised as an individual. However, if I had the choice of winning the Champions League or the Golden Boot, I'd pick the Champions League every time."
