(Cristiano Ronaldo And John Obi Mikel. Photo Credit:  X/Instablog)

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel says Cristiano Ronaldo has damaged his legacy by walking out of the Portugal camp.

He still believes the forward deserves to be celebrated for what he has given the game.

Ronaldo left the squad during the last international break after a row with new coach Jorge Jesus.

He said the coach had lied to him and shown him no respect after he was dropped for the Nations League game against Norway.

Ronaldo has since apologised, and the Portuguese Football Federation has suspended him.

Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel said no player should walk out on his country, least of all a captain.

He said the manager's job is to win matches and can change plans on playing time.

He also said Ronaldo should be celebrated now that his career is nearing its end.

"Even if you are not a Cristiano Ronaldo fan, you cannot deny what he has done for the game," Mikel said.