'I understand' - Erik ten Hag has 'no problem' with Cristiano Ronaldo's furious reaction to being subbed

Erik ten Hag said he “understands” Cristiano Ronaldo’s furious reaction at being substituted off in Manchester United’s goalless draw with Newcastle. With United pushing for a winner at Old Trafford, Ronaldo was replaced by Marcus Rashford with 18 minutes remaining, and the Portugal international stormed off the pitch. Ad Ronaldo, who earlier had a goal controversially ruled out by referee Craig Pawson, was visibly upset by his manager’s decision – but Ten Hag was not prepared to publicly criticise the 37-year-old.

Premier LeagueMan Utd charged with failing to control players in Newcastle draw7 HOURS AGO It was only Ronaldo’s second league start this season and his first since the 4-0 defeat to Brentford in August. «I think no player is happy when he [is taken] off, and especially not Ronaldo, I understand that,” said Ten Hag. “As long as it is [done] in quite a normal way, [I have] no problem with that.” 'Everyone has to be careful with their comments' — Eddie Howe hits back at Jurgen Klopp Man Utd charged with failure to control their own players after Cristiano Ronaldo goal disallowed The draw with Newcastle saw United drop to fifth, seven points behind Wednesday’s opponents Tottenham, who are third.

Ronaldo could be set to keep his place in the starting line-up against Spurs after Ten Hag confirmed that Anthony Martial is ruled out with injury. Having scored eight career goals against Spurs, including six in his last three, Ronaldo will be confident of adding to his league tally of just one goal this season. »Anthony Martial, he is not available,” confirmed Ten Hag.