Portugal manager not worried over Ronaldo's fitness

Portugal manager Fernando Santos brushed aside claims that poor fitness is hindering Cristiano Ronaldo's performances on the pitch.

Former Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello recently insisted Ronaldo continues to suffer from the knee injury that forced him out of the Euro 2016 final against France.

Ronaldo also missed the beginning of Real's season with the injury, and has since struggled to make a mark. The Spanish side registered its fourth straight draw last weekend against Eibar.

Santos, however, contends he's not concerned by Capello's claims.

"I respect Capello a lot. But I would be more worried about these comments if they came from (Real Madrid manager Zinedine) Zidane," Santos told reporters.

Ronaldo is expected to make his return to the national team during Friday's encounter with Andorra.

"He is not just one more player, he is almost everything," Santos added. "We are not just thinking of his quality, he is a player who wants to win more and more. This national team is going to take further steps forward, and it is important to count on the player who has won most titles. He is an enormous boost for the national team."