Ronaldo's stats suggest he will be no run-of-the-mill centre forward. Following his five-star show against Granada, he has 300 goals for Real Madrid under his belt and is set to surpass Alfredo Di Stéfano in the club's scoring charts sooner rather than later. Raúl's club record won't last too much longer either.
Most of his goalscoring exploits in Madrid so far have come from a starting position on the flank, but Cristiano also has what it takes to be lethal as an out-and-out striker. He can create something out of nothing with solo runs, but is also a poacher who excels at being in the right place at the right time. On top of that, he's the best header out there right now.
What's more, officially giving Cristiano centre stage would have a knock-on effect that could suit Gareth Bale down to the ground. With the left-wing spot vacant, the Welshman would be free to play in his natural position. It's true that Bale wouldn't be able to cut in and unleash shots the way Carlo Ancelotti has spoken about - a scenario which, incidentally, isn't paying off much recently - but he would gain the ability to skin defenders and deliver crosses without having to check inside. It just so happens that the main beneficiary of this extra service would be… Cristiano.
