Ronaldo Thanks Surgeon After Award

Real Madrid striker Ronaldo thanked his surgeon Gerard Saillant after picking up the European footballer of the year award.

Saillant helped the Brazilian recover from two injury ravaged years.

"Professor Saillant instilled in me an extraordinary confidence, even when people were saying that my first operation was a mistake I always believed in him," the forward told Canal Plus.

"He inspired me and helped me stay calm and optimistic, very strong things indeed."

"I thank him with all of my heart. I'll ask France Football to give me a copy of the trophy so I can give it to him. He helped me in overcoming my injury tremendously."

He continued: "After two years of injury, without even knowing whether I would play football again, I overcame my problems thanks to my passion for football, and that is why this reward has a different meaning for me."