Portugal national football coach Fernando Santos has insisted that former Real Madrid and Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo is still part of the Portugal squad despite his recent absence from the national team in the ongoing UEFA National League.

Cristiano Ronaldo last played for Portugal in FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia where they were knocked out by Uruguay in the round of 16. Santos has however said CR7 remains a key part of his squad.

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Mais um jogo rumo ao objectivo. Boa sorte, malta!👍🏽⚽️ pic.twitter.com/PWNJZzDdaN

— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) November 17, 2018

Ronaldo-less Portugal team have become the first side to reach the Nations League Finals after Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Italy in Milan.

CONSEGUIMOS!👊 Com o apoio de todos, Portugal está na Final Four da primeira Liga das Nações da história! 🇵🇹 #TudoPorPortugal

WE DID IT!👊 With all your support, Portugal is in the first ever UEFA Nations League Final Four! 🇵🇹 #TeamPortugal pic.twitter.com/fIMym9zC3S

— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) November 17, 2018

Speaking to media at a press conference, Santos said there should be no questions about Cristiano Ronaldo.

“There is no doubt. If you still have doubts, I don’t know,” Santos said. “But Cristiano Ronaldo is part of this team,” he added.

So far, Cristiano Ronaldo has made 154 appearances for his national side and netted a record 85 goals.

Portugal will next take on Poland on Tuesday.