Fergie: Ronaldo Can Get Better

Sir Alex Ferguson has tipped Cristiano Ronaldo to establish himself as the best player in the world after the Portuguese completed a clean sweep of personal awards for the season.

The 22-year-old Manchester United winger received his Football Writers' Association award on Thursday night for his efforts this season.

Earlier this week he was named the United fans' and players' player of the year soon after scooping both the awards - player and young player - from the Professional Footballers' Association.

United boss Ferguson, who bought Ronaldo from Sporting Lisbon in 20003, believes the player can build on his success this season, when he scored 23 goals.

Ferguson said: "He's got great quality. I hope he goes on to develop himself to be established as the best footballer in the world.

"To do it for a long time is another challenge for the boy and I think he will do that."

Ronaldo's future in English football looked in doubt at last summer's World Cup when he played a sinister part in Wayne Rooney's dismissal in the quarter-final when England bowed out.

But he rammed the taunts of rival supporters down their throats this season, playing his part as United grabbed the Barclays Premiership title from Chelsea.

Ronaldo could complete a double with United if they win the FA Cup final against Jose Mourinho's team on Saturday at the new Wembley, and he said at the FWA dinner tonight: "It's a big honour, I'm very happy for this."

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