CRISTIANO RONALDO has reportedly “put the squeeze” on Erik ten Hag to start him against Brighton tomorrow.
The wantaway Manchester United star, 37, is still an Old Trafford player after failing to secure an exit.
And in an astonishing turnaround, Ronaldo could end up leading the line on Sunday following an injury to Anthony Martial.
According to the Mirror, Ronnie has been “flying” in training sessions this week having only returned from holiday 10 days ago.
Despite wanting to leave, the veteran remains eager to play as many minutes as possible ahead of the World Cup.
And Ronaldo has informed Ten Hag he is ready to play tomorrow.
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United’s new boss has several options to replace Martial, with youngsters Anthony Elanga and Alejandro Garnacho both available.
But Ronaldo’s recent training performances have given him food for thought.
The Portugal star’s quality was never in doubt, having scored 24 times last season despite United’s awful performances.
Indeed, Ronaldo remains the club’s best player by some margin.
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And despite enraging Ten Hag by leaving early during United’s friendly against Rayo Vallecano, he could now get a look-in against Brighton.
However, Ronaldo is unlikely to change his mind about leaving while the transfer window remains open.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has seen Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid pass up opportunities to sign him.
Ronaldo is now thought to be considering a stunning return to boyhood club Sporting Lisbon.
Meanwhile, Turkish giants Galatasaray are also said to be lining up a deal for Ronnie.
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They are already set to seal a transfer for Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira in the coming days.
And Gala also hope to add former Napoli star Dries Mertens, now a free agent, to their squad next week.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
