Aheed Abrar
Erik ten Hag reveals reason for starting Cristiano Ronaldo for Manchester United against Sheriff Tiraspol
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag gave Cristiano Ronaldo a start for the Red Devils against Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League after his recent suspension. And the Dutch manager believes the Portugal international is an important part of the squad.
The 37-year-old refused to come on as a substitute against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League. Consequently, he did not travel with the squad to Stamford Bridge for the game against Chelsea.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was fined two weeks of wages and trained with the youth team. However, he was restored to the first team prior to Sheriff making their way to Old Trafford.
Speaking to BT Sport via Metro on what convinced him to restore Ronaldo to the starting lineup, Ten Hag said:
“In that part he doesn’t have to convince me – he has to convince me on the pitch!
“He gets the opportunity and he’s an important part of the squad.”
United put in a promising performance against the Moldovan outfit. Diogo Dlaot opened the scoring just before halftime. Marcus Rashford doubled the Red Devils’ lead.
Ronaldo ended up playing the full 90 minutes against the Moldovan outfit. The Portuguese looked to be searching for a goal throughout the game. He had a few opportunities but could not capitalise on them.
However, the 37-year-old managed to score in the 81st minute and the match ended 3-0. His initial header was saved, but the forward did not miss after getting a second bite at the cherry.
Ronaldo seemed more motivated against Sheriff. And the Portuguese star got his third goal of a campaign that has been rather underwhelming for him. The legendary number seven has featured a total of 13 times for the club this season.
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Hopefully, the 37-year-old is able to build from his performance at Old Trafford. However, it remains to be seen whether Ten Hag opts to start the forward once again in our next game against West Ham United.
