For Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo the end may finally be in sight

Cristiano Ronaldo can seem the footballer who stopped time, whether with his chiselled physique or the goalscoring returns of a forward years his junior.

When he and Aaron Lennon took the field at Turf Moor on Tuesday, it was a meeting of players who first clashed in the Premier League in 2003. Yet in a tale of remarkable longevity, perhaps the more pertinent part is that the 37-year-old came on as a substitute at Burnley.

It could be explained by the fact Ronaldo played 120 minutes against Middlesbrough on Friday. It nonetheless felt another chastening occasion in the supposed happy homecoming that has often left Ronaldo scowling.

The serial Champions League winner took Manchester United through the group stages almost single-handedly. Take away two late winners and an injury-time equaliser and they may have beaten an ignominious exit.

But Ronaldo is accustomed to winning the Champions League, not struggling to qualify for it. United can return to the top four by beating Southampton on Saturday, but the most prolific goalscorer in football history has no experience of finishing fifth or sixth, let alone seventh.

MANCHESTER UNITED PLAYER RATINGS: Dean Henderson – 6. Little to do in a first half where United had 70 per cent possession and 12 shots to Boro’s one. Then a super right-handed save from Crooks on 55 in a far more open, hectic, entertaining, cup game. Another key save on 115 from Connolly. Nearly got to second penalty of shootout. No saves from eight in the shootout. Reuters

The idea that all United needed to become champions again was an elite striker has proved very misguided. Ronaldo’s two-goal second debut, a double against Newcastle United at a euphoric Old Trafford, has looked a false dawn.

His fame has