Cristiano Ronaldo, Portuguese midfielder, was hailed as a footballing "genius" after he eclipsed George Best as the highest-scoring winger in Manchester United's history and helped the Red Devils edge closer to another English Premier League title.
Ronaldo took his United scoring tally for the season to a remarkable 33 goals in all competitions after netting twice as Sir Alex Ferguson's side defeated Bolton 2-0 at Old Trafford.
United, who host fourth-placed Liverpool on Sunday, are now in a strong position to defend their Premier League title after opening up a three-point advantage over second-placed Arsenal with eight games to play.
Ronaldo surpassed Best's record of 32 goals in a single season, set in 1967-68, with two first-half strikes, the first an opportunist finish from 12 yards, and the second a stunning 30-yard free-kick.
"The second goal was genius," said Gary Megson, Bolton manager.
"I honestly don't know how he does it. Even my lads were talking about it."
Ferguson was equally glowing in his praise of Ronaldo, who was made captain for the night in the absence of Gary Neville, Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney.
"He didn't make a big issue of it," said Sir Alex when asked how Ronaldo reacted to being handed the captain's armband.
"He looks comfortable with the responsibility that comes with the role. It was a marvellous second goal."
A worthy successor
Ferguson also regarded Ronaldo as a worthy successor to the legendary Best.
"It speaks volumes of the boy's ability (the record)," the Scot said.
"It's amazing that he can do that playing in the position he does. Nobody can do that in this day and age.
"The free-kick was marvellous. He does put in the practice and he has this technique."
Bolton failed to improve their chances of survival as they sit deep in relegation trouble after losing their last five Premier League games.
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