India, Aug. 6 -- Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez has offered a powerful defence of Cristiano Ronaldo, arguing that the Portuguese great's extraordinary competitiveness and willingness to celebrate his own achievements have too often been mistaken for arrogance.

Hernandez is particularly well placed to assess the personality behind Ronaldo's public image. The former Manchester United striker spent the 2014-15 season on loan at Real Madrid, where he shared the dressing room with Ronaldo and observed his daily habits from close quarters.

The Mexican also played alongside Rio Ferdinand at United, scoring 59 goals in 157 appearances and winning two Premier League titles. With 52 international goals, he remains Mexico's record scorer. Speaking ...