Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has defended Cristiano Ronaldo after his poor World Cup.

Erdogan felt the former Manchester United striker was poorly treated by Portugal coach Fernando Santos.

He told a young people's forum: "Unfortunately, they have imposed a political veto on him.

"He is someone who defends the Palestinian cause.

"Sending a footballer like Ronaldo to the field when there were only 30 minutes left until the end of the game, he ruined his psychology and took energy from him."

Erdogan added: "According to the information I have received, Ronaldo is going now to Saudi Arabia."