Real Madrid striker Ronaldo, "I'd say that
as a lethal finisher, Ruud is the best in the world. I don't think
there's any player in the world that truly makes a team but Manchester
United without Ruud van Nistelrooy don't look like the same team. He had
a difficult time with injuries last season, but this season I've watched
him and he looks sharp - I think they can rely on him for 30 goals this
season.
"Last year in an injury-ravaged season van
Nistelrooy hit 20 goals in all competitions but by the end of the 2004
season he had bagged 37 and in the season before that he hit 47. There's
no doubt Manchester United look very strong this year and with Ruud back
to his best, they're more than capable of winning things in England and
in Europe.
"Ruud and Wayne Rooney are becoming one of
the world's best striking partnerships - they compliment each other so
well. Wayne will play off Ruud, holding the ball up and providing him
with great service. Ruud will be the box player scoring from yards out,
while we know Wayne Rooney is capable of scoring from anywhere.
"I don't think there is a defence in Europe
that will be able to cope with them on their day. And with those two
players up front I believe they have a very realistic chance of winning
the Champions League."
