Cristiano Ronaldo has said he considered retiring from international football after the World Cup before deciding to extend his Portugal career. Ronaldo -- who turns 42 in February -- will win his 234th cap against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday, with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus confirming that the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star will start the Nations League fixture.

Some commentators have suggested the game at the Jose Alvalade Stadium could be his international farewell, but the five-time Ballon d'Or winner said he will finish when "I feel like I'm not doing anything here." Asked if he considered leaving Portugal after the World Cup, Ronaldo said: "Yes I did. Of course, I'm always thinking on my decisions, my future, the present also."

Ronaldo, now playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, currently has 979 career goals. He denied that he is obsessed with reaching 1,000 goals, although he did add that he would love to reach the landmark in Portugal colours. "I know why young kids love Cristiano, because they see me as an example, and I will continue to do that."