Ronaldo has publicly abandoned his desire to play for Real Madrid - at least until next summer - and instead committed himself to Old Trafford.

"Before rumours emerge saying that I will play against my will, I want to make this clear - whoever says or writes that is lying," he told Portuguese newspaper Publico. "I will play for Manchester with all my heart and soul. I will fight and honour that shirt with the same commitment and dedication as always."

United had agreed with Ronaldo's desire to end speculation over the matter and were informed about the interview before Wednesday night's 0-0 draw with Juventus.

The 23-year-old is due to see a specialist in Amsterdam on Thursday to have an updated assessment on the ankle he recently had operated. If as expected Ronaldo is given the all clear, he will fly straight into Manchester.

Clearly, he was eager to end the speculation over his future before meeting his team-mates again - especially because a decision about where he would play this season was made last month after a meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson, once Portugal had been dumped out of Euro 2008.

"He heard my arguments; I heard his - and in fact, it was settled that the best for both parties would be for me to stay," said Ronaldo, with Ferguson adding his view once proceedings at Old Trafford had reached their goalless climax.

"We cleared the air in Portugal, and the boy spoke to a few of the players as well," said the Scot. "The thing is, he knows he is happy here and has always been happy here.

"The fans have to understand it has been a very difficult time for him. He has been offered all this money - when his dad has died a young man and he is looking after his mother, his sister and his brother.

"But once he knew my stance he settled down - and as far as we are all concerned, the matter is finished. The boy is a United player - that is what is important."



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