Who said what: World reacts as Cristiano Ronaldo becomes highest goalscorer in professional football

Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo had the world talking following his mesmerizing hat-trick against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

The 37-year-old has endured a difficult spell at Old Trafford since joining from Serie A side Juventus last summer.

Prior to Saturday's game, the former Real Madrid star had scored just once in his last twelve appearances for Manchester United. Reports spoke of Cristiano Ronaldo's frustration at the club and claimed he was considering leaving United at the end of the season.

But he well and truly proved his doubters wrong in United's win over Spurs. The Portugal captain took the match into his own hands with an exquisite hat-trick that also made him the highest goalscorer in professional football history.

The football world reacted to the legendary forward's hat-trick and the incredible feat on Twitter:

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Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick may have just saved Manchester United's season

Manchester United will be banking on the striker to continue his goalscoring exploits

When Cristiano Ronaldo was omitted from Manchester United's squad against neighbors Manchester City last weekend, doubts were raised over his future at Old Trafford.

Despite interim boss Ralf Rangnick telling reporters he was dealing with a hip flexor injury, the feeling was that the forward was not keen to sit on the bench for the derby.

Manchester United would suffer a demoralizing 4-1 defeat to Pep Guardiola's side and the striker played no part.

The Portuguese forward made a return to the squad with many questioning his contribution but nobody could have forseen the performance he put in against Spurs.

The 37-year-old now has 12 goals in 24 Premier League appearances this season after his hat-trick. Perhaps his impressive performance will serve as a reminder to his doubters of his quality. The striker can come alive at any given moment.

Manchester United will be banking on the forward to build on his performance as they enter the business end of the season.

They currently sit in fourth-place in the Premier League but Arsenal are in the driving seat to qualify for UEFA Champions League football next season. The Gunners currently occupy fifth place but have four games in hand over the Red Devils.

Rangnick's side are still alive in the Champions League and will host Atletico Madrid in the second-leg of their last-16 tie on Tuesday. The Old Trafford outfit drew the reverse fixture 1-1.

Clearly United have a crucial few weeks ahead and they will be hoping once again star man Cristiano Ronaldo can rise to the occasion.