Ronaldo boost for Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has given Portugal a boost on the eve of the World Cup by resuming training.

There were concerns the Real Madrid player may miss the opening Group G game against Germany because of knee and thigh problems.

However, the Portuguese Football Association gave an encouraging update today, nine days before the opener in Salvador.

The FPF statement read: “Cristiano Ronaldo and Raul Meireles integrated with the remaining group of players.”

Midfielder Meireles had been struggling with a muscular problem.

However, central defender Pepe worked away from the main group of players as he continued his recovery from a leg injury.

The statement added: “Pepe is carrying out his rehabilitation and sport specific exercises in the field individually.”