Criticism of Ronaldo is ‘insignificant’ and ‘just noise’ says Portugal team-mate Dias | OneFootball

Portugal defender Ruben Dias says the squad are not paying any attention to the recent criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo started Portugal’s opening World Cup game against DR Congo but struggled as Roberto Martinez’s men drew 1-1.

The 41-year-old has since come in for significant criticism for his lack of impact on the game, but Dias says it is not something that is being spoken about within the Portugal camp.

“It’s not an issue for us,” Dias insisted. “It’s insignificant, just a bit of fuss and noise. It’s all part of the game.

“First and foremost, the criticism isn’t directed at just one player. Cristiano is a major focus of attention, but I think we’re all in the firing line.

“Above all, apart from what I’ve just said, I don’t think anything out of the ordinary is happening. It’s always been like this since I’ve been here. I believe it will continue to be so in the future.

“In the end it’s noise. We isolate ourselves from it and focus on doing our thing.

“For all of us, it’s not an issue. We’re all united in the realization that difficulties are a good thing and that it’s through difficulties that we’ll see what we’re made of.

“We embrace it as an opportunity to create something positive. My mind doesn’t wander in that direction. I don’t pay attention when it’s thrown at us. I believe none of us attach any importance to it. It shouldn’t even be an issue.”