AC Milan's Ronaldinho: Being told I was 'past it' motivation enough

Ronaldinho has declared he can help AC Milan teammate Alexandre Pato win the Ballon d'Or.

The former Barcelona star impressed in Milan's Champions League victory at Real Madrid this week, a game where Pato struck twice.

"My assists will help Alexandre Pato win the Ballon d'Or," declared Ronaldinho. "I feel good when I play, I'm happy and when that happens I can play in any position."

Ronaldinho has copped furious criticism this season and added: "I was not offended by everything they've been saying about me, it has served as motivation.

"I go onto the field to give my best and these things give you more energy to do it."

He added: "People saying I was 'past it' just motivated more to play well in Madrid."