Moscow July 5 (IANS) Former Brazil striker Ronaldo has brushed aside criticism of countryman Neymar for play-acting at the World Cup saying it s "nonsense" and he is not protected by referees.
"There are many ways to see football and interpret it " Ronaldo told reporters.
"I am against all these opinions (on Neymar acting). He is an intelligent player in his movements and on how to defend himself from being tackled. I don t think referees have been protecting him enough " Ronaldo was quoted as saying by ESPNFC.
Neymar has been accused by several media outlets for diving and exaggerating fouls.
Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio made a reference to "too much acting" and former internationals Alan Shearer Pat Nevin Peter Schmeichel and Eric Cantona were among those who criticised Neymar s theatrics.
"When people repeatedly hit me I would feel a sense of unfairness. Criticism is nonsense. TV shows and newspapers just want to fill the space " Ronaldo added.

--IANS dm/gau/mr