Ronaldo bristles at party allegations

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced he will take legal action against a Spanish television program, "categorically" denying accusations he held wild parties before and after the defeat to Primera Division rivals Barcelona.

Reports suggested Ronaldo had thrown a party the night before Saturday's 2-0 defeat to bitter rivals Barcelona which left Madrid three points behind the defending champions at the top of the table.

The former World Player of the Year was also alleged to have thrown another party following the loss at the Bernabeu, while several of his team-mates were apparently present at both events which lasted well into the early hours of the morning.

In a statement Ronaldo said: "I categorically refute such accusations, which are completely false and delusional: there is really not even one iota of truth in them.

"With a game the next day, it is more than obvious that I spent Friday night resting and, on Saturday night, my spirit was anything but festive.

"Considering the gravity of the charges, I have instructed my lawyers to, without any reflection, use all legal means to restore the truth of the matter."