Video – Man United 5 vs 1 Halifax – Ronaldo scores wonderful bicycle-kick in a close door match
Manchester United played a friendly against non-league Halifax Town behind closed doors.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United’s frustrated striker, started the game at Carrington.
Ronaldo’s start against Halifax comes only 24 hours after he came off the bench in the second half of United’s opening loss to Brighton & Hove Albion.
The 37-year-old was the Red Devils’ most notable absentee, with Erik ten Hag preferring new recruit Christian Eriksen in a false nine role.
Ten Hag stated of Ronaldo’s fitness and why he didn’t start against the Seagulls yesterday, “It [Ronaldo’s fitness] takes time, you can’t force it.”
“He has only had one week of training, therefore he needs to do more to get fit.” This game [against Brighton] will benefit him in terms of 35/40 minutes.”
“We have one week, and he’ll be OK next week.”
United’s number seven is racing against the clock to be ready to face Brentford this Saturday.
According to The Daily Mail, United defeated Halifax 5-1.
The starting lineup for Manchester United was unsurprisingly altered, with Tom Heaton in goal, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Eric Bailly, Raphael Varane, and Tyrell Malacia.
The midfield trio consisted of James Garner, Zidane Iqbal, and Donny van de Beek. Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho also played alongside Ronaldo.
After a dismal start, the management and supporters will be hoping that the training ground friendly would serve as a springboard for an improved performance against Brentford.
