Cristiano Ronaldo starts in behind-closed-doors Man United win

Cristiano Ronaldo was utilised from the off on Monday evening, as Manchester United returned to action in a behind-closed-doors friendly clash.

The name of Portuguese superstar Ronaldo of course took its place front and centre in the headlines once more this past weekend.

This came as the 37-year-old was forced to make do with a cameo off the bench, in a 2-1 opening day Premier League defeat to Brighton.

Ronaldo, desperate for a move away from Old Trafford this summer, did spark an improvement in an otherwise lacklustre display on the part of the Red Devils, but not so much as to swing the scoreline in favour of Erik ten Tag’s troops.

Soccer Football – Pre Season Friendly – Manchester United v Rayo Vallecano – Old Trafford, Manchester, Britain – July 31, 2022 Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag speaks with Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo during a drinks break Action Images via Manchester United v Rayo Vallecano – Old Trafford, Manchester, Britain – July 31, 2022 Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag speaks with Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo during a drinks break. Via Reuters/Ed Sykes (Alamy Stock Photo)

And yet, just 24 hours on, United’s wantaway hitman was back on the pitch once more.

This came as the Manchester giants played host to non-league outfit Halifax.

In turn, it should not come as a surprise to hear of United ultimately emerging as comfortable victors, by five goals to one.

Ronaldo, for his part, was utilised from the off, alongside the likes of Eric Bailly, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Anthony Elanga.

Cristiano Ronaldo back in action for Man Utd as he starts behind-closed-doors friendly vs Halifax https://t.co/u7ym2cYypB via @MailSport #mufc

— Chris Wheeler (@ChrisWheelerDM) August 8, 2022

Read more:

FC Barcelona threaten Manchester United-linked Frenkie de Jong with legal action

Monday’s transfer rumours: De Jong, Rabiot, Fofana, Brozovic, Alonso and more