GARY LINEKER stunned a pundit with a “very unusual question” about Cristiano Ronaldo live on TV.
But the response was almost as unusual – as it wrong-footed Lineker and had the BBC studio experts all bursting into laughter.
The England legend was keen to get inside information on how Ronaldo ticks ahead of Portugal’s Euro 2024 clash with Slovenia.
Ron, 39, went into the last-16-tie on his worst-ever run of seven games during international tournaments without a goal.
And Lineker believed he had just the man to quiz over the Al-Nassr striker’s incredible physical and mental abilities.
Ex-Portugal defender Jose Fonte, who won Euro 2016 with Ronaldo, was on the BBC panel alongside Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.
Lineker first saluted ex-Manchester United hero Ron as the “best No9 ever” for movement in and around the box.
He then asked 40-year-old Fonte: “Jose, obviously you know him well, what’s it like up close and personal with Ronaldo?”
Fonte, such an unruffled character on the pitch, replied instantly: “Well that’s a very unusual question!”
Cue hysterics from Shearer, Richards and Co.
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Lineker appeared something close to embarrassed – compared to his high standards of unflappability, anyway.
But he quickly managed to clarify his query.
He said: “I didn’t mean it to sound so personal! I meant it as a person.
“Doesn’t he bring his own team with him?”
Normality was restored as Fonte revealed the lengths Ronaldo goes to so that he can ensure peak conditioning
The ex-Crystal Palace, Southampton and West Ham ace, who still plays for Braga, said: “Yes he does. That’s why he’s one of the best ever.
“He’s so methodical on his approach to his body. So he’s always in the best condition to play a football match.
“Apart from that, he’s a very relaxed guy who likes to joke, likes to train hard and likes to score goals.”
However, Ron might not be TOO relaxed while his Portugal drought continues.
Underdogs Slovenia certainly made it hard for him with brilliant defending as they took Monday’s contest to extra time after a goalless draw.
