Erik ten Hag must decide if Cristiano Ronaldo can be thrown into the starting line-up for Manchester United’s opening game against Brighton at Old Trafford on Sunday.
A lack of options in attack means that Ten Hag may have to consider playing Ronaldo or at least putting him on the bench, even though he admits the unsettled Portugal star is not fit.
The 37-year-old is two weeks behind his teammates in terms of pre-season preparation, having missed the club’s summer tour and five friendlies.
Cristiano Ronaldo left the ground early during a friendly against Rayo Vallecano
However, Ronaldo played 45 minutes against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday and is said to have been excellent in training this week.