Ronaldo absence confirmed by Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has been ruled out of Portugal's World Cup play-off against Bosnia-Herzegovina due to his long-term ankle injury.

The Portuguese football federation had been hoping to have the star winger available for the two-legged tie, despite his club Real Madrid claiming he was not fit enough to take part.

The 24-year-old travelled to Lisbon to undergo tests with his home federation, who subsequently ruled the player out of the tie after conducting their own tests.

"Cristiano was in Lisbon on Tuesday," Portugal's football federation said.

"The player is not in good enough physical condition to train with the squad ahead of the play-offs.

"The Portuguese Football Federation wished the player a good and rapid recovery."

Ronaldo has not played for Madrid following a robust challenge during their Champions League tie against Marseille on September 30.

He did appear for Portugal in their final World Cup qualification group game against Hungary on October 10, but limped off early as his side secured a 3-0 win to help ensure they at least secure a play-off.

Madrid had voiced their objection to the player leaving for national duty earlier on Tuesday, releasing a statement which read: "Real Madrid wishes to announce that Cristiano Ronaldo will travel to Portugal in the next few hours to put himself at the disposal of the medical services of the Portuguese federation."