Former Manchester United No2 Carlos Queiroz says Cristiano Ronaldo remains a better player than his former teammate Wayne Rooney.

The debate is raging around the world about who is better seeing as the Portuguese ace's £80m departure for Real Madrid has seen Rooney blossom.

But Portugal coach Queiroz said: "Rooney is doing very well, but Ronaldo is the best player in the world and I hope that he will come through the World Cup having scored lots of goals and still be the best.

"If he does that, then he can help Portugal to big success in South Africa.

"Rooney is a great player, though. I worked with him for many years at United. He is a fantastic player and a great professional who is getting better all the time, but Cristiano is the best in the world.

"I'm sure he is happier now he is in Spain with Madrid. You don't take that kind of decision, to leave United, if you are happy there, right?

"You would have to ask Cristiano what he really feels, but I would guess he is happier now he is with Madrid.''