Cristiano Ronaldo has accepted the FA's charge of improper conduct after an incident during Manchester United's 1-0 defeat at Everton last season - but he will defend himself against the prospect of a ban.
The 37-year-old appeared to knock the phone out of the hands of Toffees fan Jake Harding, who was filming both sets of players as they left the pitch after the Goodison Park clash in April. Ronaldo was interviewed under caution by Merseyside Police in relation to an allegation of assault and criminal damage. The force later confirmed: “The matter has been dealt with by way of conditional caution."
The FA announced last month that the United forward faced a charge of improper conduct, adding that he had until the Monday just gone to respond. It has now been reported that Ronaldo has accepted the charge but will fight against the threat of a ban.
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Speaking on Wednesday, United manager Erik Ten Hag - who wasn't in charge of the club at the time of the incident - said he and the club will defend Ronaldo. "We spoke about that, he will not accept it," Ten Hag said.
The Dutchman's comments were initially interpreted as saying the the Portuguese superstar would not accept the charge. But it has since been clarified that the former Real Madrid man will not accept a ban, rather than the charge. The Mirror report "Ten Hag and United will strongly support Ronaldo’s claims that there were mitigating factors and back him in his fight that he should not be severely punished".
Ronaldo, who scored his 700th career goal in the Red Devils' 2-1 win at Everton last Sunday, appeared to acknowledge his actions immediately after last season's incident, writing on Instagram : "It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing. Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game. I would like to apologize for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship."
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