Cristiano Ronaldo supporting best friend Jose Semedo after the sudden death of his wife

CRISTIANO Ronaldo is supporting one of his best friends following the sudden death of his wife.

Former Charlton and Sheffield Wednesday star Jose Semedo’s other half Soraia, 34, passed away on Thursday morning following health complications caused by an infection.

She was pronounced dead in the early hours at Curry Cabral Hospital in Lisbon.

Ronaldo became friends with Jose at Sporting Lisbon’s youth academy and has holidayed with him in the Med.

It’s said he phoned his footballer pal to comfort him and offer his support.

Jose, 36, a defensive midfielder currently playing for Portuguese side Vitoria FC, has also been receiving support from fans on social media.

Alongside a photo Jose posted earlier this year of him cuddling his wife, who he described as ‘My Queen’, one said: “I am thinking of you and sending you lots of hugs.”

Another added: “Be strong Jose. I hope your friends and family can help you at this difficult moment in your life.”

Ronaldo and Jose, who spent most of his career playing in England, are understood to have forged their close bond after the Man United striker protected his pal when the Sporting Lisbon youth academy director tried to expel him.

The dad-of-four reportedly used his influence as the academy’s best player to stop it.

They have holidayed regularly together in the Med.

Jose has previously said:” I owe Ronaldo everything. If it wasn’t for him I would have been expelled from the academy and returned to the neighbourhood when I grew up.

“Many of my childhood friends are in jail or have got hooked on drugs.

“Nothing makes me think I wouldn’t have followed the same path.

“I owe my sporting career, my children and my wonderful life to Cristiano.”

Sheffield Wednesday, where he spent six years and was voted Player of the Year in his first season in 2011, said in a statement: “Everyone at Sheffield Wednesday sends our heartfelt condolences to Jose Semedo following the tragic passing of his wife, Soraia.

"The Wednesday family are with you at this terrible time, Jose."