Manchester United Coaches Impressed By Cristiano Ronaldo Training Stats

Manchester United coaches have been so shocked by Cristiano Ronaldo's performances in training that he's likely to start against Newcastle United.

Ronaldo officially re-signed for his former club on transfer Deadline Day, on August 31st, but was on international duty with Portugal at the time.

He arrived back early from his time with Portugal, after picking up a yellow card against Ireland and earning himself a suspension, but only started training on Wednesday.

There were reports that his shortened time to prepare alongside his new teammates would mean he wouldn't start on Saturday against Steve Bruce's side.

However, according to the Sun, the 36-year-old's performances in training and the stats he's recorded during three sessions, have led to an expectation he will be in the starting XI.

Ronaldo in training. Image: ManUtd.com

Solskjaer was keeping his cards close to his chest on Friday, at the pre match press conference and wouldn't confirm if his new signing would play from the beginning against Newcastle.

"He's had a good pre-season with Juventus, played with his national team and had a good week with us," Ronaldo's former teammate turned manager said.

"He'll definitely be on the pitch at some point, that's for sure."

Fans at Old Trafford will be hoping Ronaldo starts. Image: PA Images

However, speaking to ManUtd.com, the former Molde manager hinted that the performances in training had certainly put him under pressure to include Real Madrid's all time top scorer.

"Yeah [he has put pressure on Solskjaer to start], by his performances and by the way he conducts himself.

"He comes into the club as, if not the, at least one of the greatest players of all time having played the game. He’s just slotted straight in.

"He wants the same as everyone, he’s a part of the team. It’s not like "what about me? What about me?" No, he does exactly what everyone else does and he’s still the same as when he left."

Solskjaer has to decide whether to stick with the players who are unbeaten so far this season or bring in Ronaldo straight away. Image: PA Images

Whilst most at Old Trafford will be hoping that Ronaldo starts, perhaps other than Newcastle fans, there will be some who'd rather not see him back at United.

According to reports, some fans will hold protests about the player's unresolved legal case over alleged rape claims.

Topics: Football, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Manchester United, Premier League, Newcastle United

Ryan Sidle

Ryan is a journalist for SPORTbible with over eight years of experience. Passionate about all sports, he mainly covers football and F1 - Daniel Ricciardo once spent an entire interview referring to him as 'Ryan Gosling,' still his proudest moment.

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