Portugal coach Paulo Bento has insisted that Cristiano Ronaldo is under no more pressure than the rest of the squad to deliver success at the World Cup.
Portugal opened their campaign with a disappointing 4-0 defeat to Germany, which saw Pepe sent off and Ronaldo kept quiet throughout.
The Real Madrid forward was also pictured wearing a knee brace, leading to speculation around his fitness for the tournament. However, Bento has moved to dismiss all talk, claiming that Ronaldo is fit and under no extra pressure as the responsibility lies with him.
"I would never put on his shoulders or anybody else to solve problems. It is down to me," Bento told reporters.
"The players have the collective responsibility of playing.
"I do not put pressure on him, I would never put on his shoulders the responsibility of solving our problems."
Portugal face USA in the second group game today.
Written by
Sam Hughes
Sam Hughes
