On the day of Portugal's crucial World Cup play-off final against North Macedonia, Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo appeared bemused when his international future was brought up.
The prolific marksman is totally focused on preventing his country from following in the footsteps of European winners Italy by defeating the underdogs and securing a spot in the finals in Qatar later this year.
Following a 3-1 victory over Turkey last week, Tuesday's match at the Estadio do Dragao offers Ronaldo the chance to reach his sixth World Cup and add to his seven goals on the grandest platform.However, the 37-year-old is quick to emphasize that the team, and his country, come first, and he was irritated by inquiries about his international retirement if things do not go well for Portugal against North Macedonia, or what happens after the finals are done.
"I'm starting to see the same question a lot," our number seven said at a press conference. "I, and no one else, will determine my future." If I feel like it, I'll play some more. I don't play if that isn't the case. I'm in charge, end of story.
"There's always a lot of pressure." We're all ready to go. We were ecstatic to be able to compete in this final. If North Macedonia has made it this far, it is because they have earned it."No one is more important than everyone else," he insisted, despite his pleasure at the return of veteran defender Pepe. "We really want to get to the World Cup with Portugal."
Ronaldo's record for his country is amazing, with 115 goals in 185 appearances.
Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes will also be hoping to start in Tuesday's 19:45 BST match as Portugal looks to secure a spot in the group-stage draw on Friday afternoon.
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