Cristiano Ronaldo wants more protection from referees

Portugal's ace striker Cristiano Ronaldo wants more protection from referees, as he believes that he is being targeted by the opponents.

The Real Madrid superstar was angry after receiving a yellow card for a bust-up with defender Guy Demel in Portugal's goalless draw with Ivory Coast on Tuesday.

"Referees should protect the more skilful players when they are getting fouled by the opposition," The Sun quoted Ronaldo, as saying.
 
"One of their players fouled me in the first half and I got a yellow card for it. I don't understand it. When it is three against one, as it was with their players against me, it is not fair to book me. Sometimes it is difficult for me when referees give fouls because they think I dive," he said.

Portugal's boss Carlos Queiroz supported Ronaldo.

Queiroz said, "They don't protect talented footballers any more. The Ivory Coast players made intimidating tackles. Ronaldo was the victim of a bad decision."

Queiroz was also unhappy with Fifa allowing Didier Drogba to play wearing a lightweight cast to protect his fractured elbow.

"I'd like to see if the rules are the same for everybody," he added.