Cristiano Ronaldo Versus Israel: Eric Cantona, Eden Hazard and the Football Stars Backing Palestine

After Portugal's World Cup qualifier against Israel in Tel Aviv earlier this week, claim Cristiano Ronaldo refused to swap shirts with the Israeli players to demonstrate his support for Palestinian rights.

The snub by the Real Madrid star reflects Ronaldo's long held support for Palestine. In 2011, he gave away his Golden Boot award - worth £1m - to the Real Madrid Foundation. The boot was subsequently be sold at auction with the funds being used to help build schools in Palestine.

The world's most expensive footballer has also previously sold his sport shoes to raise money for a charity for Palestinian children.

When he was still playing for Manchester United, Ronaldo was photographed wearing a Palestinian muffler, the kufiyyeh, as a support for Palestinian cause.

The Ballon D'or winner is not the only footballer to express their support for Palestine. Israel's military assaults on Gaza - as part of its ongoing conflict with Islamic militants - has led to dozens of leading professionals signing a statement, organised by ex Tottenham Hotspur goal-scorer Feddie Kanouté, urging UEFA's to rethink their decision to stage next year's Under 21-European Championship in Israel.

Players including Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Arsenal's Abou Diaby said that allowing Israel to host the tournament will be "seen as a reward for actions that are contrary to sporting values."

The statement from the players added: "Despite the recent ceasefire, Palestinians are still forced to endure a desperate existence under occupation, they must be protected by the international community.

"All people have the right to a life of dignity, freedom and security. We hope that a just settlement will finally emerge."

One player who was originally thought to have signed the letter was Ivory Coast star Didier Drogba.

However, his name, along with Newcastle United's French international midfleider Yohan Cabaye and Valenciennes striker Anthony Le Tallec, were later removed from the list of those who had signed.

A statement appeared on Drogba's website which stated: "My name was on a list of signatories of a petition supporting. Please note, I did not sign this petition or give my support to this initiative, because I have never got involved in any conflicts, even in my own country the Ivory Coast."

In the wake of these cases, IB Times UK collects more examples of footballers showing their support for Palestine.