Sir Alex Ferguson believes the reception Manchester United fans gave Cristiano Ronaldo last night will go a long way to convincing the Portuguese he was right to turn down Real Madrid in the summer.

"He has had a turbulent summer and a lot has been said about it but when I had my meeting in June in Portugal with him that was over," Ferguson told Sky Sports.

"He dedicated himself to getting fit and his commitment to the club.

"It (the crowd's reception) was important for Cristiano.

"I think he realises what a great club he is at and how loyal the fans are. He will take great encouragement from that."