Portugal
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Queiroz: Hailed Ronaldo
Portugal manager Carlos Queiroz has added his congratulations to the plaudits given to Cristiano Ronaldo after he lifted the 2008 Ballon d'Or.
Queiroz played his part in helping Ronaldo scoop the prestigious award as he was Manchester United's assistant coach last season when the 23-year-old netted 42 times as the Red Devils secured the Premier League - UEFA Champions League double.
While praising the prodigious talent, Queiroz believes his Portuguese charge can not rest on his laurels and must now push on and progress even further.
He told the Portugal Football Federation (FPF) official website: "Cristiano has worked very hard to deserve it. I want to congratulate him and emphasise this distinction."
Really proud
He added: "As someone who was responsible for his training and preparation at Manchester United, I am really proud for his achievement, which was his dream and ambition.
"I hope this award symbolises a career full of success both individually and collectively.
"This award is also a challenge for him to keeping working as he has been doing so far in order to remain at the top and progress even further."
Ronaldo succeeded AC Milan playmaker Kaka in lifting the award and Rossoneri coach Carlo Ancelotti said he was a worthy recipient.
Spectacular player
"Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the best and most spectacular players in the world," said Ancelotti, who was not surprised after no Serie A player was voted in the top five this year.
Kaka was the highest Italian-based player in eighth while Inter Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic was voted ninth.
Ancelotti added: "The Ballon d'Or depends on the trophies you win while the Champions League also plays an important role.
"Kaka has already won it while Ibrahimovic is destined to win it in the future.
"But Italian football gives more importance to the collective rather than individual play. This was evident in the World Cup won by the Italian national team in 2006."
