Gary Neville's role in Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Manchester United revealed

Former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre has opened up on role club legend Gary Neville played in signing of Cristia Ronaldo. Portuguese superstar was signed by Red Devils in 2003 after his stellar performance when Sporting Lisbon played Sir Alex Ferguson’s side in summer that year.

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Gary Neville was among first to demand Cristia Ronaldo's signing: Silvestre

While speaking to FourFourTwo, Mikael Silvestre revealed that Gary Neville was among first as well as most vocal among Man United players demanding signing of Ronaldo. Silvestre stated that he came up against Ronaldo during ir game against Sporting Lisbon back in 2003 and Ronaldo gave John O'Shea such a tough time that his display convinced Man United players he has what it takes to succeed at Old Trafford.

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Cristia Ronaldo tortured John O’Shea: Silvestre

During pre-match talk, Sir Alex Ferguson made a brief mention of young talent to watch out for, said Silvestre. Although he didn’t mention name of youngster, team got to kw who manr was talking about once game began. Ronaldo did t allow John O’Shea a moment's rest on left wing with his splendid speed and change of direction with ball. y all had one common opinion, that it will be amazing to see youngster don Man United shirt.

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Ferguson spoke to Cristia Ronaldo, Sporting Lisbon post game: Silvestre

After match, Gary Neville came in dressing room and urged Sir Alex Ferguson to sign Ronaldo, claimed Silvestre. Ferguson responded by saying that he would look into what could be done. Silvestre recalled post-game scenario when players had to wait for longer than usual in team bus, claiming that Ferguson was speaking with Ronaldo and Sporting Lisbon in his attempt to convince youngster to join Premier League giants.

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Silvestre t surprised at Cristia Ronaldo's success

Ronaldo went on to become one of best players in world after joining Man United in 2003. Silvestre claimed that it was quite clear that youngster will emerge as one of best since beginning due to capabilities of Portuguese winger. former Man United defender claimed that Ronaldo kept improving every aspect of his game at Man United, something that hinted at his glorious future. y weren’t surprised with Cristia Ronaldo's success eir at Man United or at Real Madrid, asserted Silvestre.