Cristiano Ronaldo to start up front against Manchester United?

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has reportedly considered using Cristiano Ronaldo as a lone striker for his side's Champions League tie against Manchester United at Old Trafford next month.

French international Karim Benzema started in the role during the opening leg in the Bernabeu last week, while Argentine frontman Gonzalo Higuain is also part of the Madrid squad.

However, Mourinho is said to have been left disappointed with the pair's attitude over recent weeks and their current fitness levels.

As a result, the Portuguese boss has given strong thought to playing Ronaldo as a a centre-forward against his former club, according to Spanish journalist Guillem Balague.

Ronaldo found the net as the first match between the two sides in Spain ended in a 1-1 draw.