Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand wants Cristiano Ronaldo to play for the club even if he is 50% fit. Erik Ten Hag decided to bench Ronaldo for the team’s opening match of the Premier League against Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils got off to a disappointing start as they lost by 2-1 with Pascal Gross scoring a brace for the tourists. In fact, Erik Ten Hag had earlier revealed that Ronaldo is not up to the mark with his fitness as he hadn’t played in the preseason matches.
Ronaldo was finally introduced by the Dutchman in the 53rd minute of the game in place of midfielder Fred. However, Ronaldo could not make an impact as the hosts got off to a losing start in their campaign.
Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE’, he said: “For a player, the worst thing for you to do is sit on the bench and come on.
“Somebody who is not fit, you start him and say ‘you’re going to play 45 [minutes] and do what you do’.”He’s experienced enough to pace himself through a game. You have to trust these guys when they’re that age and that experienced – [he’s] one of the greatest players of all time.”
Former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand wants Ronaldo to play as a center forward with Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford assisting him on right and left wings respectively. Ronaldo was United’s top performer in the previous season as he had scored 24 runs in 38 matches across all competitions.
“Man United is never letting him go right now. Where are they going to find 24 goals?”Not even a question, start him, Jesus. A 50 percent fit Ronaldo, you’re putting your money on him before anyone [else] in that team.
“I would start Ronaldo up front, Rashford on the left, Sancho on the right.”
There is no doubt that Cristiano Ronaldo adds a lot of value to Manchester United’s team with his class and experience. Thus, Erik Ten Hag must make the most of the talismanic striker in the upcoming matches.
Manchester United will next face Brentford on Saturday at Gtech Community Stadium.
