‘No plan exists to stop Ronaldo’

Didier Deschamps admits no plan exists to stop Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Sunday’s Euro 2016 final between France and Portugal.

Ronaldo is one goal away from becoming the European Championship’s all-time top scorer, and Deschamps is aware that “it’ll be very important to limit the influence” of the Real Madrid star when France battle Portugal for the Henri Delaunay Trophy in Saint-Denis.

“Antoine plays in a position that he knows and often does so for Atletico,” he said at a Press conference.

“It requires adjustments so the team are balanced. He’s able to play in other positions if it’s for the good of the team.

“No-one has found [an anti-Ronaldo plan] yet. He has an athletic quality that allows him to fly.

“His physique allows him to have those abs! If we limit his influence, it’ll be very important.

“Since our last game against [Portugal], many things have happened, but the most important thing is [Sunday].

“Cristiano’s spent eight years at the top for club and country. If Griezmann can form part of the [Ballon d’Or] candidacy then it’d be good because it’d show he did well in the final.

“Antoine has that quality and efficiency which is important for the team, but he’s not a soloist.

“He understands what the team needs, with freshness and character. It all depends on the collective.

“I’m not surprised by [Samuel Umtiti]. He knows I have confidence in him, despite his young age. He’s a calm and quiet player, and I have no worries about him.

“The merit is his and his teammates have helped him. He has the mental strength and character needed at the highest level.”

Tags Cristiano Ronaldo Didier Deschamps Euro 2016 France Portugal
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