Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo has explained why he did not retire from international football after the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The 2016 European champions bowed out at the quarter-final stage at last year's World Cup after losing to African giants Morocco.
There may have been talk that the 38-year-old might be done with national side, especially after leaving European shores for Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr.
Read: Ronaldo breaks international record in big Portugal win
Ronaldo seems to have made the right decision after bagging a brace in Portugal's 2024 European Championship qualifier on Thursday night.
"I'm not going to lie. In our life, we have to put everything on the scale," Ronaldo said after the win, as per Goal.
"We thought, we reflected, me and my family, but then we came to the conclusion that, despite the difficulties, we cannot throw in the towel. I was able to see situations at different angles. I learned a lot from that.
"I'm glad to be back. Roberto Martinez showed that he counted on me. I've always wanted to play. As you know, he talked to everyone and to me, too.
"And I was able to realise that I have a lot to give to the national team. I feel it, I want it, and my desire is to take Portugal to the highest level. I will always give my contribution when they need me."
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