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Cristiano Ronaldo could be unavailable for Portugal against South Korea

Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo is doubtful for his country’s final group-stage clash against South Korea.

Having already successfully qualified for the last 16 of the World Cup, Os Navegadores want to confirm top spot in Group H.

The 2016 European champions were dealt an injury blow yesterday when Ronaldo missed training and worked in the gym on his own instead.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s game at the Education City Stadium, the Portuguese national head coach Fernando Santos has revealed that his side could be without their all-time leading goalscorer. 

“Let’s see – in principle, Ronaldo will train soon,” Santos was quoted saying by The Sun when quizzed about Ronaldo’s availability.

“I don’t even know if it’s 50/50 [the probability of being fit for the game] if you train normally.

“Cristiano Ronaldo was replaced in both games. There’s a plan in case Cristiano can’t play.

“There is no player guaranteed to play at all times. It would hardly run if we didn’t have a plan.”

With Nuno Mendes already sidelined for the rest of the World Cup, Portugal could undoubtedly do with no further injury problems as they target a deep run into the competition.

Consequently, Ronaldo could be excluded from the game against South Korea with the knockout phase of football’s biggest event fast approaching.

Ronaldo has netted one goal in Qatar so far and will be eager to feature tomorrow to possibly add to his tally of international goals which continues to rise.

Having been recently released from Manchester United, the 37-year-old’s future is currently up in the air, although he is reportedly close to joining Saudi Arabian outfit Al Nassr.

However, per Fabrizio Romano, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is focused on the ongoing World Cup tournament as he seeks to bow out in grand style in what is set to be his last appearance at this level.

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