Cristiano Ronaldo has been an inspiration to many, all over the world. His blazing speed, dribbling abilities and ‘nose for the net’ has made him a football icon.

The fantastic success he’s had in the last two years playing for Manchester united, with 2007/2008 in particular, has prompted other football players to study his game in hopes of improving theirs.

Middlesbrough manager, Gareth Southgate, recently reported to The Sunday Mirror that Middlesbrough and England winger Stewart Downing had been asked by management to study video of the 23 year old Portugal International. It was hoped that they may incorporate some of Cristiano Ronaldo’s tactics and know-how into Stewart Downing’s game.

Southgate admitted that they sat down with Downing and told him to watch videos of the 23 year old Red Devil, so that he may gain insight into the way Ronaldo carries and finishes the game.

“We asked him to incorporate some of what he saw into his game” And as a result “Downing has become a better player” said the Middlesbrough manager.

Southgate went on to say that “Ronaldo has shown it’s being in there, being far enough forward and attacking the ball”.

With Cristiano Ronaldo making such an explosive impact on the English game, one is left to wonder if more clubs will follow the footsteps of Middlesbrough .

Original Story can be found here: sundaymirror.co.uk