Cristiano Ronaldo: 'I still watch United'

“Every time I can I try to watch United's games on television," he confessed.

"I still like to know what's happening at Old Trafford. And despite being at Real I'm always happy when I know when United have won.”

The FIFA World Player of the Year also expressed his delight that compatriot Nani is receiving more playing time for the Red Devils and has backed the young winger to shine in Ronaldo’s absence.

“I've also seen Nani is playing much more than he was last season when I was there. That's good for him and he will benefit from that.

“Now he has more opportunities he will be able to show the fans just how great a player he is. We still speak regularly on the phone and it's good to see United's fans are starting to appreciate him more.

“Nani is an excellent player. There's a lot more to come from him and I'm sure that in a few years he will be amongst the best players in the world.”

Ronaldo has been in superb form at his new club, scoring in each of his first four La Liga matches and getting a brace in his opening Champions League fixture at FC Zurich.

Gary Parkinson is a freelance writer, editor, trainer, muso, singer, actor and coach. He spent 14 years at FourFourTwo as the Global Digital Editor and continues to regularly contribute to the magazine and website, including major features on Euro 96, Subbuteo, Robert Maxwell and the inside story of Liverpool's 1990 title win. He is also a Bolton Wanderers fan.