THE NEW PELE

Ferguson:

"He is 22 and has the same skill factors as Pele and Diego Maradona, obviously.

"But you have to remember that Pele was playing in a World Cup final at 17, which is extraordinary, and he went on to score 1,300 goals in his career. Maradona played in two World Cup finals and was an incredible player, the player of his era, ahead of everyone by a head and shoulders.

"Pele was also the player of his era but he played at a time when there were some fantastic players like Alfredo di Stefano, Ferenc Puskas, Eusebio and Johann Cruyff.

"Cristiano at 22 is, without question, getting to the level of being best player in the world. Thereafter, it will be left to the media and other coaches in the world to decide whether he is up there with Pele and Maradona.

"That is what is in front of him. That's the challenge for him."

Ronaldo:

"I wanted to stay. I am at the right club and this is why I signed. Everything is OK here. I am happy with my colleagues, my friends and my coaches.

"The supporters have also helped me very much and I am really happy here."

Giggs (official site):

"It is great news for the club, Cristiano and the fans.

"He's been on fire this season, his form has been unbelievable. For someone in his position and of his age to be as consistent as he has been is remarkable.

"There is no-one who can rival him as the best in the world at the moment. He's improved as a player, but he's continuing to improve which is the scary thing. Whatever challenges he faces, it doesn't bother him or faze him.

"The thing he needs to do now is to be consistent for the next ten years. If he does that he'll rightly be up there with the greats."