Former England manager Sam Allardyce has asked Portugal coach Roberto Martinez to drop Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench for Portugal’s quarterfinal game against France.

He said the 39-year-old is now a liability for Portugal at Euro 2024.

Ronaldo only needs to redeem his image at the tournament in Germany, as he has struggled to impress for his nation.

Allardyce, a former Bolton Wanderers and Newcastle boss, told William Hill and Footy accumulator’s podcast on No Tippy Tappy Football: “Given the talent that Portugal have in their squad, I think they’ve been quite disappointing. They’ve got so much talent and so much ability on the ball, but they’re having to carry Ronaldo now.

“Even though he is still very fit for his age, he simply doesn’t have the same energy levels anymore. The other players have to carry him and they’re good enough to do it, but he still hasn’t scored yet. Roberto Martínez won’t be brave enough to drop Ronaldo.”