Manchester United have confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo will not be involved against Liverpool this evening.
The 37-year-old last night shared the tragic news of his baby son's death, promoting thousands of messages of support being sent his way, and the player has requested privacy at this challenging time.
Writing on social media, Ronaldo posted the following message yesterday: “It is with our deepest sadness we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away. It is the greatest pain that any parents can feel. Only the birth of our baby girl gives us the strength to live this moment with some hope and happiness.
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“We would like to thank the doctors and nurses for all their expert care and support. We are all devastated at this loss and we kindly ask for privacy at this very difficult time. Our baby boy, you are our angel. We will always love you.”
United have now issued their own statement, which says: "Everybody at Manchester United and indeed the football world is sending love to Cristiano Ronaldo and his family, after the club legend made a heart-breaking announcement on Monday evening.
"Family is more important than everything and Ronaldo is supporting his loved ones at this immensely difficult time. As such, we can confirm that he will not feature in the match against Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday evening and we underline the family's request for privacy. Cristiano, we are all thinking of you and sending strength to the family."
In a message to Ronaldo on Twitter last night, the official Liverpool account posted: "All of us here at Liverpool FC send our deepest condolences to you, Georgina and the family".
Liverpool against United kicks off at 8pm this evening at Anfield.
Earlier this week, interim boss Ralf Rangnick revealed he won't be able to select the likes of Raphael Varane, Scott McTominay and Fred for the match - while Luke Shaw and Edinson Cavani could miss the remainder of the season through injury.
"Rapha didn't train with the team, he was on the pitch with one of our rehab coaches," Rangnick said. "In regard to injuries, we have the same situation as we had in the last two games."
A doubt was placed over Bruno Fernandes' involvement in the game after a car crash on Monday morning, but the Portuguese midfielder trained as normal the same day and will be available for selection.
