Cristiano Ronaldo has reassured Portugal fans ahead of their World Cup campaign after Ruben Neves played down the impact of the striker's bombshell interview with Piers Morgan.
Ronaldo, 37, launched a dramatic attack on Manchester United in an explosive interview, in which he accused the Red Devils of betrayal and trying to force him out. Old Trafford chiefs may be in a position to tear up the superstar's contract and have begun the process of terminating his deal.
The Portuguese superstar is hoping to engineer an exit during the January transfer window and there have been concerns that such scrutiny over his future and the fallout from his interview may act as a distraction from his World Cup campaign – where he will captain his nation.
However, such concerns were quashed by international teammate and Wolves midfielder Neves, who said at Sunday's press conference: "There is no controversy inside the changing room. So it is impossible for us to fear any impact around that controversy as there is no controversy inside the changing room.
"This controversy exists in the media, not in the changing room. It has been all said. We are 100 per cent focused on our World Cup campaign. We have a spectacular environment in the national team. That is our focus."
Ronaldo subsequently posted a message on social media: "Good energies, good feelings, the same commitment and the same concentration that we put into each challenge. Focus! Determination! Belief! Wherever we are, Portugal, always!"
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Ronaldo became the most prolific international goal scorer of all-time last year and has netted a staggering 117 in 191 caps for Portugal – no other player has netted triple figures for their nation. Just three months shy of his 38th birthday, Ronaldo has remained a mainstay in his side.
Not only does the United forward captain his nation but he has been an undisputed starter for Portugal throughout his career and appears likely to win his 200th cap next year, as he aims to continue playing for the nation until 2024.
Portugal begin their World Cup campaign with a clash against Ghana on Thursday before taking on Uruguay four days later. Fernando Santos' side will then conclude their group stage against South Korea on 2 December.
