Cristiano Ronaldo admits he had ‘really needed’ to score his first direct free kick in a Juventus jersey at the 43rd attempt, as they beat Torino 4-1.

Ronaldo had 43 attempts in all competition over the last two seasons, but they were either saved, off target or into the defensive wall.

“I really needed that free kick goal so I could get some confidence back,” confessed Ronaldo to Sky Sport Italia.

“We knew it would be a difficult game, but we worked hard, won and are now putting pressure on Lazio. We achieved the objective today.”

Paulo Dybala and Matthijs de Ligt were booked and will therefore be suspended against Milan.

“It doesn’t matter who scores goals, as long as the team wins. We’re all in good shape and will try to win against Milan too, which is another difficult match.”