Cristiano Ronaldo names Ashley Cole as the toughest defender he's ever faced

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed who is the toughest defender he has ever faced this week, while surprising many people with his answer.

The Real Madrid icon has played with and against the finest players in world football, coming up against elite defenders on an annual basis in the Champions League.

Ronaldo will be up against Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk in the Kiev final on Saturday night, but admits it is a defender of much smaller stature who has caused him the most trouble.

The forward was a guest this week on Spanish talk show El Chiringuito TV, and sat down with presenters to answer a series of quick-fire questions.

Ronaldo rattled off several lifestyle and sport related questions, before being momentarily stumped by the presenter when asked: 'Who is the toughest defender you have played against?.'

The 32-year-old pondered over the question before confidently answering: 'Ashley Cole.'

Ronaldo came up against Cole frequently during his time in the Premier League, with many high profile battles with the former England international under his belt.

Manchester United's clashes with Chelsea would often hinge on whether Ronaldo could get the better of his opposite number Cole, and the Portugal captain had no issue about admitting it was tough.

Ronaldo will step out in Kiev on Saturday as the Champions League's leading scorer  with 15 goals so far.

Madrid are aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive European Cup victory, to add to the 12 previous cups secured in club history.

Last season Los Blancos triumphed over Juventus in the Cardiff finale, and now must overcome Liverpool who are bidding to win their sixth European cup.