Portugal winger Ronaldo was in majestic form as United went top of the Premiership with a 2-0 home win against Newcastle on Sunday.

He set up the opening goal for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who also got the second for his first home league goals for over three years, and tormented Newcastle throughout the match with his skill and pace.

Former Sporting Lisbon star Ronaldo was close to leaving Old Trafford for Real Madrid in pre-season after the English media was critical of his part in United teammate Wayne Rooney's sending off in the World Cup quarterfinal.

But Ferguson's assistant Carlos Quieroz persuaded Ronaldo to stay and the United boss is confident he can go on to emulate the success of United legends like George Best, Bobby Charlton and Eric Cantona.

Ferguson said: "Nothing fazes Cristiano. He has been marvellous all season and, while it is difficult to say with any certainty, maybe what happened to him at the World Cup could turn out to be a defining moment in his career.

"I could see the potential for greatness the first time I saw him in training and he has a great future ahead of him.

Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder admitted his side had no answer to Ronaldo and said: "Everyone, and I mean everyone, is finding it hard to cope with Cristiano Ronaldo.

"Along with Wayne Rooney and Thierry Henry, he is undoubtedly one of the most dangerous players in the Premiership."