Former Arsenal and England midfielder Paul Merson believes Erik ten Hag has been given the perfect opportunity to banish Cristiano Ronaldo from his Manchester United plans moving forward.
The Portugal international, who returned to Old Trafford from Juventus a little over a year ago, refused to come off the bench during Wednesday night's 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur, headed down the tunnel back to the dressing room and left the stadium before his teammates had even returned after the full-time whistle. United, on Thursday, issued a statement to confirm that the 37-year-old would be left out of the squad for Saturday's trip to Chelsea.
Ronaldo reported to the club's Carrington training base on Friday morning and was forced to train on his own away from the first-team squad, meaning Ten Hag has made an example of the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who was determined to leave United during the summer. He has started just twice in the Premier League so far this season, suggesting that the Dutchman does not consider him a key part of his plans.
