Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney says Cristiano Ronaldo is a massive threat for his side's Champions League last 16 return against Real Madrid but insists the Red Devils will have the last laugh over his former teammate and qualify.
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Ronaldo will face United at Old Trafford on Tuesday for the first time since his world record €80 million move to the Bernabeu three-and-a-half years ago.
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"I think we obtained a good result in the opening leg in getting a 1-1 draw - the away goal gives us a certain advantage for the home leg," Rooney said, while warning that United would have to keep Ronaldo quiet if they were to reach the last eight.
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"Without doubt, Cristiano," said Rooney in an exchange with Real sponsors bwin when asked who he thought posed the greatest threat.
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"He is incredible. I have played with him and I know just how good he is.
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"He is the player I have the most respect for in their team as a footballer and as a person." Real midfield star Kaka meanwhile said that the Spaniards were not feeling they had missed their chance by failing to obain an opening leg lead.
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"The feeling was we could have won it but it wasn't to be. Now the team goes to Old Trafford full of confidence to get a win there," Kaka told bwin, adding that the United players he most rated and respected were Rooney and Robin Van Persie.