Erik ten Hag is looking to ‘get the best out of’ Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United and has offered an update on Anthony Martial’s fitness.
Ronaldo has featured sporadically this season following his desire to leave the Red Devils during the summer, with the forward having started just once in the Premier League this season.
The Portugal captain came off the bench to score the winner at Everton on Sunday and produced an encouraging performance as he regains match sharpness. He is expected to start as the club take on Omonia Nicosia in the Europa League on Thursday evening.
Ten Hag has discussed Ronaldo’s role in his plans and his desire to bring the best from the five-time Ballon d’Or winner this season.
“I want to support him as good as possible,” Ten Hag told his pre-match press conference.
“We have certain demands from players, what we expect in certain positions. I want to get the best out of him, he’s in better shape now and I’m happy with that. At the start, it was the case [lack of fitness], it’s proven once again, no one can miss a pre-season.”
Ten Hag also provided an update on Anthony Martial, who was substituted during the first half at Everton. The forward has struggled for fitness this season and will not feature at Old Trafford.
“Not [training] today, we will see how it develops for Sunday,” he said of the Frenchman. “Harry [Maguire] is out. And longer-term Donny van de Beek and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.”
Ten Hag spoke on his frustration at Martial’s latest setback and admits it is disappointing to again be without the France international.
“Of course, I want him in, sometimes it’s disappointing when they aren’t available because I know we need him. When they aren’t, you have to deal with the situation.”
