Manchester United supporters have welcomed the news that Cristiano Ronaldo will be dropped from the squad for Saturday’s trip to Stamford Bridge.
The 37-year-old was seen trudging down the tunnel before full-time in Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Tottenham after being benched for a seventh Premier League game.
As a result, Erik ten Hag has taken decisive action. Ronaldo, who netted 24 times last season, is considered Ten Hag’s third-choice striker behind Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford.
READ MORE: Man United drop Cristiano Ronaldo from squad vs Chelsea
He has consequently started just two league matches this season and has only scored twice in all competitions. The superstar previously left Old Trafford early during United’s final pre-season game with Rayo Vallecano, exiting the stadium during the second half.
This was condemned by Ten Hag and he said post-Spurs that he would be speaking to Ronaldo about Wednesday’s early exit. The result of their talks is the striker has been removed from the squad for the weekend.
United fans on Twitter said this was the right call by Ten Hag, with many angry at Ronaldo - who handed in a transfer request over the summer - for his behaviour. They praised the United boss for taking a firm stand.
@AalbiFCB7: End his contract, I beg you guys.
@buchishine1: My coach. Whatever happens I will always support you.
@estimate2001: Good news he isn't bigger than the club.
@onyilovetommi: I Love Ronaldo. But no one is bigger than the club. I repeat no one. Message to the rest of the team.
@AsunaHarrison: As much as I like CR7, this is a great move by ETH. He's shown the kind of leadership we've been missing since Fergie left. Discipline discipline discipline.
@francispowerz: He needs to learn his lesson or else leave the club.
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