'Example for all players' - Cristiano Ronaldo singled out for special praise by Al-Nassr boss Luis Castro after running riot with FIVE goal contributions in massive victory over Abha

The Portuguese forward continued his fine form in the Saudi Pro League with another dominant display on Tuesday. He scored a scintillating hat-trick and laid on two assists, all in a blistering first half, before being removed at the break as Al-Nassr scored three more. Those contributions certainly didn't go unnoticed by Castro, who hailed Ronaldo as the "perfect example for all players".

The Portuguese coach told reporters after the 8-0 win: "Ronaldo works with the team collectively, and shines regardless of the team's situation. He is very influential and is a positive example for all players."

Ronaldo's latest performance shows he is picking up where he left off in March. Despite Al-Nassr being 12 points off the pace in the league the veteran forward continues to shine. The 39-year-old takes his tally for the season to an impressive 29 league goals in 24 matches, and he brought up his 65th career hat-trick on Tuesday. Ronaldo received the SPL Player of the Month for his escapades in March and he will surely be in line for the April award if he continues in the same vein.

The hat-trick against Abha was also Ronaldo's 35th since turning 30. That puts his tally at a whopping 29 more than rival Lionel Messi since the Argentine reached the same age.

Castro confirmed that his players would be returning to Riyadh immediately after the 8-0 win as players "wanted to stay with their families" before their next away match. Having enjoyed 45 minutes of rest against Abha, Ronaldo will no doubt lead his side out for that one, when they travel to Damac in the league on Friday.