Manchester United's teenage striker Cristiano Ronaldo is delighted to be wearing the club's number seven shirt - but not because of its part in Old Trafford folklore.

David Beckham was the last player to wear it, with George Best, Bryan Robson and Eric Cantona among previous United number sevens.

But while the 18-year-old Ronaldo acknowledges the mystique of his new squad number, the reason for his happiness is closer to home.

"Everyone has been telling me about George Best, Bryan Robson and Eric Cantona, and it does fill me with pride to be following in their footsteps," he told United's website on Wednesday.

"I know the number seven shirt has a great tradition at United and anyone would be proud to wear it. But there is more to it than people in England may realise. For me it is extra special because it is also Luis Figo's number.

"When I was growing up in Portugal, Figo wore the seven of Sporting Lisbon. Like any kid with dreams of being a footballer, I wanted to be Figo. I wanted to wear the number seven."

Ronaldo made an instant impact at United following his 12.25 million-pound transfer from Sporting Lisbon.

Arriving as a substitute in the opening premier league match of the season against Bolton on Saturday he inspired United to a 4-0 victory.

"It looks like the fans have a new hero," United manager Alex Ferguson said. "It was a marvellous debut, almost unbelievable. I felt his penetration could make a difference for us. We have to be careful with the boy. You must remember he is only 18."