Cristiano Ronaldo in ‘spectacular form’ and interview sparked ‘no controversy’ in Portugal camp, insists Ruben Neves, as Manchester United striker tipped for ‘phenomenal’ World Cup in Qatar 2022

Ruben Neves insists Cristiano Ronaldo’s interview caused no controversy in the Portuguese camp ahead of the World Cup.

Manchester United superstar Ronaldo has dominated headlines in recent days after a stunning interview with TalkTV presenter Piers Morgan in which the striker made a series of remarkable claims.

The 37-year-old has been highly critical of the Red Devils, manager Erik ten Hag and the club owners Glazers.

United say they have “taken appropriate action” in response to Ronaldo’s comments and talkSPORT understands they are looking to sack the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

This all comes a week before Portugal begin their World Cup campaign in Qatar, in what could be Ronaldo’s last bid to win football’s most coveted prize.

However, Wolves and Portugal midfielder Neves insists the interview was not a distraction.

“There is no controversy inside the dressing room,” Neves said.

“It is therefore impossible for us to fear any impact around this controversy because there is no controversy inside the locker room.

“This controversy exists in the media, not in the locker room. Everything was said. We are 100% focused on our World Cup campaign.

“We have a spectacular environment in the national team. That’s our goal.

And after training alongside Ronaldo last week, Neves expects his captain to stage a “phenomenal” tournament.

Portugal begin their World Cup campaign against Ghana on Thursday – live on talkSPORT.

Neves added: “From what I’ve seen in training, he [Ronaldo] is in spectacular form. Therefore, it is not an issue that concerns us at all.

“We are fully aware that we have to play as a team in order to get the best out of each individual. Cristiano is no different. If we play well, Cristiano will be phenomenal.”