Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has insisted that he had no problem with Cristiano Ronaldo's reaction to being withdrawn against Newcastle United on Sunday.
The 37-year-old was named in the starting XI in the Premier League for just the second time this season, but he was substituted in the 72nd minute despite the fact that the Red Devils were chasing a goal.
Ronaldo shook his head when he was taken off, and his replacement - Marcus Rashford - headed an excellent chance wide of the post late on, with the points being shared in a goalless draw.
Ten Hag was asked about the Portugal international during his press conference on Tuesday afternoon and said that he 'understood' Ronaldo's frustration.
"I think no player is happy when he [is taken] off, and especially not Ronaldo, I understand that. As long as it is [done] in quite a normal way, [I have] no problem with that. He is, of course, convinced that he should stay on and he should score a goal. That is why he is that good," Ten Hag told reporters.
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Ten Hag was also asked whether Ronaldo's strong record against Spurs would be considered when it comes to choosing his starting XI on Wednesday.
"I know it, but, and, of course, when you line up several facts you take count of, but also other facts you take count of," said the Dutchman.
Ronaldo has scored 14 times in 20 appearances against Tottenham throughout his career, including eight goals in 13 Premier League outings.
Last season, the attacker registered in Man United's 3-0 victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium before hitting a hat trick in a 3-2 success for the 20-time English champions at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo will be bidding to keep hold of his starting role against Antonio Conte's side, and his chances have been boosted with Anthony Martial again ruled out of the contest through injury.
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The Portuguese was widely linked with a move away from Man United over the summer, having allegedly informed the club at the start of July of his desire to seek pastures new.
A lack of suitors ultimately led to Ronaldo remaining at Old Trafford, and he has found it difficult to show his best form this season, only scoring twice in 12 appearances in all competitions.
Ronaldo only has one Premier League goal to his name this term, which came against Everton at Goodison Park on October 9, but he has drawn blanks in his last two games with Omonia and Newcastle.
Man United have four more matches before the end of the month, also taking on Chelsea, Sheriff Tiraspol and West Ham United, before beginning November away to Real Sociedad.
Matt Law
