Ronaldo provisionally suspended by Portuguese FA

Cristiano Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) after leaving his country's international camp last month. The 41-year-old captain walked out of Portugal's Nations League squad in September after being an unused substitute against Norway and then finding out he would not start against Denmark. In a lengthy statement, the Al-Nassr forward later explained he left because Portugal coach Jorge Jesus twice "broke his word", accusing him of an "absolute breach of trust". In a statement, the FPF said a "provisional suspension" was issued on 9 October and they had marked the case as "urgent". The FPF's rules state any player who fails to appear or walks out on international duties faces a ban of one to six months, as well as a fine.

Pedro Proenc, president of the FPF, told Portuguese outlet Record:, external "This is a time for calm and composure. We are all sitting down together at the table. "There is a strong desire to have our captain back with us. There will be a normal disciplinary process." Ronaldo accepted accountability and apologised to his team-mates and fans for his actions, before adding he deserved to be punished. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner also confirmed he would not be retiring from international football as he continues to chase down 1000 career goals. Ronaldo