Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has warned against dismissing Cristiano Ronaldo's chances of taking his career goal tally up to 1000.
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Ronaldo reached 900 goal milestoneMartinez amazed by star's achievementHopes he can keep adding to his tallyWHAT HAPPENED?
The 39-year-old scored the 900th goal of his career when Portugal beat Croatia in the Nations League this week. The ex-Real Madrid and Manchester United star declared after the game that he is not finished yet, revealing he has "more dreams" to achieve.
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The prospect of Ronaldo continuing until he crosses the 1000 milestone has since been raised, and his national team manager said he would not rule it out, though he admitted he would settle for 100 more assists instead of goals.
WHAT MARTINEZ SAID
"I think scoring 900 goals is not easy. It is a historic, incredible feat, it is an inspiration for several generations and for football," he said. "But for me, what is important now is why Cristiano scored the goal. I think it was the performance. Very good, full of intelligence. Our striker is not just about goals. It is important. It is a number for the future, but for us the important thing is now.
"Cristiano's performance against Croatia was very important to open up spaces, to be able to win the game and work hard for the victory. I don't think anyone can say that Cristiano can't do something. It is incredible what he is doing in football. But for us the objective is collective. Cristiano can help, it is not just about goals. Assists are very important, if he can make 100 assists, I will be very happy."
AFPWHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
Martinez suggested in his press conference that he may rest some players for his team's upcoming match against Scotland, meaning Ronaldo may have to settle for a place in the bench.