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Graeme Souness claimed that “no one will remember” Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag in five years time.
In recent weeks the Man Utd boss has clashed with club talisman Cristiano Ronaldo after the 37-year-old refused to be brought on as a late substitute in a 2-0 win over Tottenham.
Ten Hag responded by dropping Ronaldo from the squad altogether for last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
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The Dutchman’s handling of the situation has caused fierce debate between swathes of media, with a contingent of pundits including Roy Keane feeling that Ronaldo has been mistreated.
Souness too insisted that much of the drama is of the manager’s making and that ten Hag should have been clearer with Ronaldo about his role at the beginning of the season.
On Tuesday the former Liverpool man told Talksport: “In five years time, Ten Hag will be away from United, and no one will talk about him at Man United.
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“I would have ironed it out with Ronaldo on day 1. I personally would use him very differently, I still think he’s got something to offer.
“In five years time, no one will remember Ten Hag. Ronaldo will be remembered as arguably the greatest player who has ever kicked a football.”
Yesterday, Ronaldo took part in United training for the first time since being dropped.
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Ten Hag has confirmed that the Portuguese star will return to the squad for Thursday’s Europa League game against Sheriff Tiraspol and that he considered that matter now closed.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference the Dutchman said: "Yes, Cristiano will be in the squad on Thursday.
"I think we said everything and answered all the questions. He was out for one game and now he is back in the squad as usual.
"It's done. He's back. Let's focus on the game."
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Erik Ten Hag, Graeme Souness, Europa League, Manchester United