Man Utd vs Sheriff Tiraspol, 8pm, BT Sport 1
Erik ten Hag has stated that it is time to move on with the controversy surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo after the 37-year-old’s recall to Manchester United‘s team for tonight Europa League meeting with Sheriff Tiraspol.
Ronaldo was dropped off for Saturday’s trip until Chelsea refusing to act as a substitute as a punishment and going through the tunnel to end last Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Tottenham.
But the Portuguese superstar has returned to the fold, tweeting a photo of herself at United’s training yesterday with the words: ‘Back on track, with the same commitment and dedication as ever!’
Ronaldo had joined group training on Tuesday in preparation for tonight’s game and United boss Ten Hag said: ‘Yes, Cristiano is in the selection.
‘(This period was) not difficult. I think we’ve said everything and answered all questions. He was out for one game and now he’s back in the selection as usual.’
However, Ten Hag was determined that a next press conference would not be about the frontman. “You don’t have to (ask more questions) because I won’t answer anymore,” he said with a laugh.
“Everything we covered last week, we explained everything, so we have to focus on tomorrow’s game.
“We have an important game because we want to be number 1 in the group, so let’s focus on that. It’s done, he’s back and focus on the game.’
United will seal a top two place in Group E if they avoid a defeat by more than one Sheriff’s goal.
Ten Hag will be without Raphael Varane and all other matches prior to the World Cup tonight. The French defender is in good form but looked sad when he went to Chelsea with a reported knee problem that is jeopardizing his Qatar dreams.
“He’ll be out for sure until…” the Worldcup,’ said Ten Hag. “He won’t be playing for Man United in this block.”
Asked if Varane can play in Qatar, he added: “I think so, but we have to see the prognosis. We have to wait and see how he develops, how his rehabilitation will develop.’
More Chelsea fallout
Manchester United have been charged by the Football Association with alleged misconduct during the 1-1 draw in the Premier League against Chelsea.
A number of United players surrounded referee Stuart Attwell in the closing stages of Saturday’s game at Stamford Bridge after he awarded the hosts a penalty, because he believed Scott McTominay had fouled Armando Broja.
Varane’s injury is a blow that could be cushioned by the return of United captain Harry Maguire. Away from a muscle injury sustained in England’s 3-3 draw with Germany a month ago, the central defender has been back in training since late last week.
“Harry, Donny (van de Beek), Aaron (Wan-Bissaka) are all in team training in preparation for tomorrow’s game,” said Ten Hag. ‘After the training, I make the decision (about their availability) together with the medical (department).’
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