Manchester United’s most recent Premier League match saw them host Everton at Old Trafford last Saturday. Despite the game being a lively affair, which eventually ended in a 1-1 draw, all the sporting headlines have been stolen by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s decision to drop Cristiano Ronaldo in favour of Edinson Cavani.
Last weekend saw Solskjaer name a much-changed side from the one that beat Villarreal 2-1 in the Champions League earlier in the week.
Alex Telles made way for Luke Shaw, Aaron Wan-Bissaka returned, Jadon Sancho was recalled, Fred took the place of Paul Pogba and Ronaldo made way for Cavani.
Despite having a bench littered with talent, Solskjaer’s decision to switch things up backfired and ended up costing his side two important domestic points – a decision even legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson bemoaned.
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Elsewhere, sports presenter Richard Keys has also slammed Solskjaer’s decisions – but unlike Ferguson, the ex-Sky Sports employee feels the Norweigan should not have preferred the Portuguese attacker at Cavani’s expense.
Writing in his blog, the controversial presenter said: “Solskjaer started his best centre-forward, but strangely chose to withdraw him after an hour. I’ve no idea why – but more significantly – Cavani was both puzzled and furious.
“My mole working near the dugouts tells me he stormed past Solskjaer when he came off, but quickly changed his mind about ignoring the manager and shook hands. But make no mistake – he wasn’t happy and there’s trouble brewing there.”
Going on to address Ronaldo’s exclusion from the side’s starting 11, Keys said: “What’s more baffling is why Ronaldo didn’t start.
“Why did he need a rest when he’s not playing again until the weekend – and maybe not at all? I can’t think Portugal will need him to beat Qatar in their friendly.
“It was another daft decision by Solskjaer – this one compounded by the inclusion of Martial.
“Why didn’t he play Ronaldo left of his three up top? I’ve never understood managers leaving players out – only to find themselves needing them to chase a game.
“Why not get it won – and then take them off? Ole’s still at the wheel – but for how much longer I wonder?”
