Last Updated: Friday, July 11, 2014, 15:10
Rio de Janeiro: In the same week he usurped Ronaldo as the FIFA World Cup`s top scorer, Germany striker Miroslav Klose said the Brazilian legend remains football`s most complete player.
Klose, who equalled Ronaldo`s 15-goal tally against Ghana in the group stage, netted his record-breaking 16th goal in Germany`s 7-1 defeat of Brazil Tuesday, reports Xinhua.
"He was an outstanding player," the Lazio striker said during a press conference Thursday.
"I play in Italy and everyone I speak to there says that Ronaldo was the best player that ever played in Italy. For me he was the most complete player ever."
Ronaldo, now working as a television commentator for Brazilian broadcaster Globo, graciously congratulated Klose live on air during Tuesday`s match.
Klose said he was grateful for Ronaldo`s humility.
"Obviously it must be bitter for him that he was in the stadium when I overtook him in the match against Brazil," Klose said.
"Before he sent a message out `Klose - welcome in the club of 15`. I can now send out this message: `Miroslav Klose in the club of 16 and everyone`s welcome to join`."
Klose is one of only three players to score at four World Cup finals - along with Brazil legend Pele and Germany`s Uwe Seeler.
He is also Germany`s all-time record scorer with 71 goals in 136 international matches.
IANS
First Published: Friday, July 11, 2014, 15:10