Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag says he had no problem with Cristiano Ronaldo’s reaction to being replaced in Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Newcastle United.
United were left frustrated in the goalless draw at Old Trafford, while Ronaldo was replaced with 20 minutes left after making a rare start.
The 37-year-old Portuguese has scored some crucial late goals in the past, so he trudged off after seeing his number flashed with surprise, before shaking his head numerous times.
That comes with Ronaldo having played a bit-part role all season under Ten Hag having wanted to leave United in the off-season.
The situation is intriguing but the Dutchman tried to downplay the significance of Ronaldo’s reaction.
“I think no player is happy when he comes off, especially not Ronaldo, I understand that,” Ten Hag said.
“As long as it is in quite a normal way, I have no problem with that.
“Of course, he is convinced he should stay on and score a goal, that’s why he is that good.”
Ronaldo has only scored once in the Premier League this season, although he netted a hat-trick against Wednesday’s opponents Tottenham back in March.
Despite that, Ten Hag offered no guarantees that Ronaldo would start against Spurs this time out.
“I know of it (the hat-trick), and of course, when you make a line-up you count on several facts, but also other facts you take out of (your thinking),” Ten Hag said.
Ronaldo has started United’s last two games, against Newcastle along with Omonia Nicosia in the Europa League.
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