'I always believe that I’m the best’

Real Madrid striker Cristiano Ronaldo was named the best Portuguese player of 2017 and he hits back at his critics in customary manner after winning yet another individual award.

The Portuguese beat Sporting CP goalkeeper Rui Patricio and Manchester City star Bernardo Silva to the award after scoring 42 goals in 46 games as Madrid won the League and Champions League double.

"I am grateful for this award to all those who are here," he said. "It is also an award for all my colleagues — 2017 was an excellent year, unforgettable both collectively and individually."

"I also won my fifth Ballon d'Or and my second The Best award. I also dedicate it to my four children. That's another record — three children in three months.

"We have to defend what is ours because there is always a Portuguese in the fight.

"I always believe and say that I am the best, whatever they say, and then I show it in the field. We are in the fight year after year."

Ronaldo started the season badly and his lack of scoring form saw Real Madrid slip 15 points behind Real Madrid. The Spanish club can however revive their season by going far in the Champions League and their next test comes against Juventus in the quarterfinal of the competetion.