"Unique" Cristiano Ronaldo is still an integral part of the Portugal setup, according to head coach Roberto Martinez.
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Ronaldo adds another trophy to collectionLed Portugal to second Nations LeagueIncredibly important according to MartinezFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Ronaldo scored as Portugal beat Spain on penalties in the Nations League final on Sunday, marking his latest chapter of an illustrious career with silverware. He has since earned the praises of his head coach Martinez, who paid tribute to the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportWHAT MARTINEZ SAID
Speaking in the aftermath of the Nations League, Martinez said: "At 40, he has unique experience in the world of club football," Martinez said of Ronaldo.
"Being a coach isn't about picking or not picking Cristiano Ronaldo, it's about using the best players to have the best team and win titles. It's important to make decisions based on facts, and Cristiano has scored 20 goals [for Portugal] in [the last] 25 games. There are no records like this.
"We've managed to make the dressing room a very competitive place, and when you have a player like Ronaldo, it's a football lesson every day."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Martinez did not stop there when it came to praising the football icon. Ronaldo was hailed as an "inspiration" for the younger generation due to his leadership on and off the pitch.
He added: "He's more than a player, he's an icon.
"Almost like the weather, something you talk about in the elevator. Every day he takes opportunities to improve. That is something that is very contagious. The fact that he only wants to improve influences the younger generation."
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
The rumour mill has been swirling with energy when it comes to Ronaldo's future, but it has not yet been confirmed whether he will be extending with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. There had been talks about the forward joining up with a side for the Club World Cup, but that looks optimistic now.
