“He scored 23 goals last season and it is absolutely realistic that he could at least achieve that again,” Ferguson said.
“We expect him to improve as a footballer. We expect to see the development in his football.
“He has two great feet, he is marvellous in the air and there is no reason why he can’t do even better than he did last year.”
Ferguson also praised Sporting Lisbon fans after their standing ovation to Ronaldo when he was replaced by Carlos Tevez.
“That is a rarity in modern football,” said Ferguson.
“Cristiano is obviously one of their former players and it probably reflects how grateful they are to have nurtured such an incredible young talent.
“Sporting developed him for seven years, now we are fortunate to have him for what we hope will be the best years of his life.”
