Former Aston Villa goalkeeper, David James, believes Cristiano Ronaldo is the Greatest player Of All Time (GOAT) ahead of Lionel Messi.
James also backed Ronaldo to win the Golden Boot at the ongoing Euro 2024, adding that Messi doesn’t turn up in big games all the time.
Ronaldo and Messi have dominated the GOAT debate for several years.
The pair have won 15 Ballon d’Or awards among themselves in the past.
“Yes [Ronaldo is my choice for Golden Boot at Euro 2024], I think he will score a free-kick as well,” James said (via Football Extra on Sony Sports Network).
“When Rio Ferdinand says Ronaldo is the most hardworking player he played with, that is saying something. Definitely better than Messi, because Messi doesn’t turn up for big games all the time.
“I think the debate on who is the best was over a long time ago. Lionel Messi played well for one club, but Cristiano Ronaldo has proved himself in different leagues, in different continents by winning golden boots and through consistent performances. He is the image of something you want to be.”