Cristiano Ronaldo has proven to be 'one of the most positive things' about Manchester United's dismal season - rather than a 'bad example'.
That is the view of the Portuguese legend's Red Devils team-mate Diogo Dalot, who has debunked Paul Ince's view over the 37-year-old's impact behind the scenes at Old Trafford. The former United midfielder had questioned the club's decision to re-sign the veteran striker, suggesting it was 'all about Ronaldo' rather than the team.
Ronaldo's role with United this season has been constantly scrutinised by commentators and pundits, despite another impressive goalscoring return. The former Juventus and Real Madrid striker has netted 24 times in all competitions, including six strikes in seven Champions League appearances.
However, it has been another dismal campaign for United who parted ways with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in November. Ralf Rangnick was handed the reins on an interim basis, but the Red Devils are set to miss out on a top-four spot and end the campaign trophyless.
Speaking in February, Ince told Genting Casino ."This is not the Ronaldo of 19 years ago when he was first at Old Trafford - this is a 37-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo. When people say he’ll be great for the club and the youngsters, you’d have thought that would be the case.
"But he’s walking off down the tunnel and throwing his toys out the pram. For me that’s a bad example. This is someone at the end of his career and if he can’t start against Burnley who are bottom of the table there’s something seriously wrong. It should be about the team, but it’s now become all about Ronaldo."
HAVE YOUR SAY! Should Cristiano Ronaldo stay at Manchester United next season? Comment below!
Despite his form on the pitch, Ronaldo has been at the centre of controversy on several occasions this season including his reaction after the full-time whistle of the 1-1 home draw with Burnley. The forward was also heavily criticised after appearing to smash a fan's phone out of their hands after the defeat at Everton last month.
Ronaldo's club and international team-mate Dalot is adamant the club legend has been a positive influence in the dressing room despite these instances. The full-back praised the summer signing's mentality and work ethic, while stating the whole squad are 'obviously very happy' to play alongside him.
Dalot told Sky Sports: "I'm sure I speak not just for me but he's been one of the most positive things about this season - to work with somebody who has his culture of working, his professionalism, his mentality and being close to him now... it's been very helpful for me and my career. I don't have any more compliments to give about the way he works, he's a fantastic human being as well. The numbers are there, the stats are there, so we're obviously very happy to have him here."
