Ronaldo named Ashley Cole as the toughest opponent he's ever faced

Ashley Cole announced his retirement from professional football on Sunday afternoon after making 804 appearances for club and country. 

The former Arsenal and Chelsea defender will go down in history as one of the great defenders. In fact, Cristiano Ronaldo paid him the ultimate compliment last year.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner came up against some of the best defenders in world football during his seven year spell with Manchester United.

John Terry from Chelsea was at the peak of his powers and so was the likes of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand.

But in an interview with El Chiringuito TV last year, Ronaldo revealed that former Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole was a tricky customer. 

In fact, Cole was named the toughest opponent Ronaldo has faced in his professional career.

This isn't the first time Ronaldo has expressed his admiration for Ashley Cole's defending ability.

Speaking to Coach Magazine back in 2016, he said: "Over the years I had some great battles with Ashley Cole, he does not give you a second to breathe.

"He was such a tenacious player when he was at his peak, quick, tough in the tackle. You knew it would never be an easy game."

It's certainly high praise from the Juventus forward and looking back, the former Arsenal full-back contained Ronaldo on a number of occasions. 

But a moment during Manchester United's 0-0 draw at Old Trafford proves that he did slip on the odd occasion.

In the fourth minute, Ronaldo changed direction quickly with a stepover and Cole couldn't stay on his feet.