Sergio Ramos: 'Cristiano Ronaldo is the best in the world'

Spanish defender Sergio Ramos has branded his Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo as "the best in the world".

Ronaldo struck 34 goals in La Liga last season, but failed to lead Los Blancos to the title that was eventually won by Lionel Messi's Barcelona.

"He is a player that you cannot blame anything on - he is an example of professionalism," the centre-back told El Mundo.

"Last season, for me, he was the best in the world. He deserves to win whatever he wants to win, really. I hope the club director is trying to renew his deal to keep him in Madrid."

Ronaldo has been linked with a return to Manchester United this summer.