RON in a million HE IS THE WORLD’S BEST, SAYS SAINTS’ FONTE

CRISTIANO RONALDO is the best player in the world and can lead Portugal to glory at Euro 2016.

So says Southampton defender Jose Fonte, who insists the Real Madrid star will take centre stage in France, as he did in the Spanish giant’s Champions League triumph over Atletico Madrid.

Fonte, 32, believes the club’s victory will motivate Ronaldo to add an international trophy to his long list of achievements.

“There’s no doubt he is the best player in the world,” said Portugal star Fonte. “And when you have the best player in the world, he is obviously important in our team. I think he will be more motivated than ever after winning the Champions League.

“Everyone knows that Portugal hasn’t won a title yet. So we want to fulfil this dream – for ourselves and for the Portuguese fans.”

Ronaldo, who has won three Champions League medals and three Ballon d’Or awards, knows it could be his last shot at European Championship glory – and is desperate to put that right. Fonte added: “We used to play for Sporting Lisbon – I’ve known Cristiano from a very young age.

“I know how hard he worked to get where he is now. His success is great credit to him. Everything he gets is because he works hard – harder than anyone else. It’s an honour to be in the same team. He is a pleasure to watch. Obviously, when he’s with the team there is a lot of emphasis on him. We know that.

“But we are prepared to play for him – and for the others.

“We have many good players, but Ronaldo is the best in the world, so it’s good for us.”

But Fonte also believes that coach Fernando Santos’ side are far from being a one-man team and are not solely dependent on the superstar.

The core of players that reached the semi-final in Euro 2012 is still intact – with Nani, Joao Moutinho and Pepe helping to form the spine of the side.

Fonte added: “We can to go the final and win it. We are a very compact side, with a good mix and we are looking forward to it.”