‘He deserves the same’: England legend laments Ronaldo’s finale compared to Messi’s

Former England striker Gary Lineker has expressed sadness over the way Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career appears to be ending, saying the Portugal great deserved a farewell similar to the emotional scenes that marked Lionel Messi’s final appearance for Argentina.Ronaldo, 41, left the Portugal camp last week amid a dispute involving coach Jorge Jesus and subsequently issued a lengthy statement explaining his decision. Messi, meanwhile, signed off from international football with a memorable performance in Argentina’s 3-0 friendly win over Benin, scoring one goal and setting up two others in front of an emotional home crowd.The contrast prompted Lineker to reflect on how the two greatest players of their generation have approached the closing chapters of their international careers.‘Cristiano deserves the same’“I think it's a bit sad because he's been so great. And ultimately in five years, 10 years' time, no one will remember this.