Cristiano Ronaldo made his return to Manchester United training this week, looking to move forward after being axed from the squad at the weekend.
The 37-year-old appeared in good spirits as he rejoined his teammates, and one in particular was very pleased to have him.
Antony has been hugely supportive of Ronaldo since joining the club, and after training with him on Tuesday he sent a message on his Instagram story page.
The Brazilian’s message simply read ‘referencia’, decribing Ronaldo as an idol he wants to learn from.
It highlights the high esteem Ronaldo is held in by his teammates, and that the events of the past week have done nothing to change this.
Ronaldo could make his first team return this week against Sheriff Tiraspol, and giving him a chance on the pitch would actually do a lot to deflect some of the controversy around his situation.
The forward would relish the chance to let his football do the talking, against a team he scored one of his two goals this season, in the earlier match-up.
Antony could sit out
While Ronaldo could return to the team, it may be Antony’s turn to sit out of the starting line-up.
The Brazilian has started every single game for Manchester United since signing from Ajax on deadline day and has frequently completed all 90 minutes.
With a tricky home game against West Ham on the horizon this weekend, United are expected to make changes, allowing Ronaldo to make his return and stake his claim.
Jadon Sancho could shift to the right to replace Antony, with Anthony Elanga on the left – or a bolder call could see Facundo Pellistri come in to make his debut.
