It was not surprising that Cristiano Ronaldo was the centre of attention ahead of Portugal's EURO 2024 opener against Czechia on Tuesday night.
The 39-year-old is appearing in his sixth European Championship - the first player ever to reach such a mark - and the Portuguese captain was named to start in Leipzig.
Questions continue as to whether Portugal are better off with or without Ronaldo in the twilight of his career but the Al Nassr striker's impact on the national team over the years cannot be disputed.
The fact that Ronaldo is still lining out for his country at this level is particularly impressive, and the BBC panel praised his commitment in their pre-match coverage on Tuesday.
Frank Lampard enjoyed many a battle with Ronaldo on the pitch during their respective spells with Chelsea and Manchester United, and recounted a recent encounter with the Portuguese legend during BBC's broadcast.
Lampard's fellow pundit Alan Shearer would then enjoy a jab at his expense.
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Alan Shearer had brilliant response to Frank Lampard's Cristiano Ronaldo story
11 June 2024; Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal celebrates after scoring his side's first goal during the international friendly match between Portugal and Republic of Ireland at Estádio Municipal de Aveiro in Aveiro, Portugal. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
Discussing the professionalism of Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Portugal's EURO 2024 opener, Frank Lampard shared a story of bumping into the 39-year-old on holiday earlier this year.
Lampard said he had been blown away by Ronaldo's physical condition, and that he had spotted his old rival in the gym multiple times a day while "on holiday."
I actually bumped into him on a holiday a few months ago, I was in the same hotel on the beach.
Unfortunately for me his sunbathing spot was a little bit down from me. I made sure to stay away because he was in incredible shape! I gave him a bit of distance.
I though about getting my son a picture because of the player he has been. So I quickly put my t-shirt on and had a nice picture with him.
He was going to the gym twice a day with his personal trainer. It just shows you the dedication to what he does.
Alan Shearer had a quick response for Chelsea legend Lampard, asking the 45-year-old, "Was there a bar looking over the gym? Were you looking in there?"
Lampard had to admit defeat, saying, "It's true, I may have been sitting in there watching him...giving him a little ripple of applause as he walked back."
He may be in remarkable physical condition but there are some who believe Portugal may still be better off without Cristiano Ronaldo in the starting lineup.
Ireland fans saw the best of Ronaldo during last week's friendly in Aveiro when he scored two goals in a 3-0 defeat for John O'Shea's side.
However, the fact that Ronaldo now plays in the Saudi Pro League, combined with the wealth of attacking talent at Portugal's disposal, has created significant doubt as to how best to use the veteran at this tournament.
With Portugal one of the favourites to go all the way in this summer's EUROs, the role of Cristiano Ronaldo will be fascinating to track over the next month.
