Following the 5-0 demolition of Stoke City, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Christiano Ronaldo is now playing as well as he did last season.

Ronaldo scored two of the five goals, both from free-kicks, in the win at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon.

"That is nine for the season now and I am sure he will be into double figures very soon," Fergie said after the game

"Overall, he has scored 101 times in 253 appearances, which is an unbelievable return for a winger.

We have been waiting for him to get a free-kick and the power he hit the first one with was very impressive.

"He's on fire now, he's back. He's overcome his operation and he is getting quicker with every game. His fitness levels are fantastic. The boy is back."