Wayne Rooney Sends Classy Message to Cristiano Ronaldo Amid Criticism From Ex Teammate

• Wayne Rooney recently revealed that he would like to see Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal win the World Cup
• The Manchester United legend’s sentiments come in the wake of Ronaldo’s explosive interview with Piers Morgan
• In the interview, Ronaldo claimed Rooney was always criticising him because he was jealous of CR7's success

Wayne Rooney has admitted he would love to see his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo win the World Cup, in sentiments made public just days after the 37-year-old’s explosive interview with Piers Morgan.

As it has been extensively reported, Ronaldo went on a scathing rant on Morgan’s show as he criticised a number of people linked to Manchester United, including Rooney.

Ronaldo claimed he had no respect for Erik ten Hag, while also criticising Manchester United's owners for allegedly not caring about football.

He also launched an attack on his former teammates Rooney and Gary Neville, accusing the former of being 'jealous' of him.

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Ronaldo told Morgan during the interview that he was surprised at the criticism he had received from Rooney, adding he did not understand where it emanated from.

"I don't know why he criticised me so badly. Probably [jealously]. Probably - because he finished his career in his 30s. I'm still playing at a high level; I'm not going to say that I'm looking better than him, which is true," Ronaldo said.

Rooney’s take on Ronaldo

Days after Ronaldo’s scathing comments hit the internet, an interview Rooney did with Times of India also surfaced, and the former England international had some interesting things to say.

As reported by Manchester Evening News, Rooney was asked who he would like to see win the World Cup - and he did not hesitate to say either Ronaldo or Messi.

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"I’m sure he’s used to dealing with expectations. The idea of leaving a legacy is surely going through his mind. I would love to see either Messi or Ronaldo win the World Cup. It would be a fitting end to their incredible careers," said the 37-year-old.

Both Portugal and Argentina are among the heavy hitters in the Qatar, with Messi’s nation being handed a slightly higher chance of winning the trophy.

In the same interview, Rooney was also asked to name his semi-finalists. He tipped Belgium, Germany, Argentina and England to make the last four.

Ronaldo’s take on United youngster

Sports Brief also earlier reported on Ronaldo's take on the one Manchester United youngster who might be able to match his longevity in football.

Ronaldo singled out right-back Diogo Dalot as one player that has the tools to play at the top level for many years.

“[Dalot is] young but very professional, but I don't doubt that he's going to have longevity in football because he's young."