Solskjaer hits back at criticism over Cristiano Ronaldo’s lack of pressing

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 16: Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Manchester United at The King Power Stadium on October 16, 2021 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has defended Cristiano Ronaldo following criticism of his performance against Leicester City.

The 36-year-old scored five times in his first six appearances but was ineffective up front against the Foxes as United lost 4-2 at the King Power Stadium on Sunday. Everyone knows the Reds were abysmal that day and it would be ridiculous to pile all the blame on one man sat up front on his own, especially when we didn’t create enough chances as a team.

However, United’s inability to press the opposition caused major problems during the second-half with Ronaldo and fellow Portuguese international Bruno Fernandes singled for ‘doing nothing’ by Gary Neville on Monday Night Football.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday ahead of this week’s Champions League clash with high-flying Atalanta, Solskjaer said he has no concerns over Ronaldo’s impact in the team.

When asked if Ronaldo’s lack of pressing is causing problems for his teammates, Solskjaer said (via the Metro): “We have got 11 players out there on the pitch.

“We have different roles and responsibilities and we have a team out there that we really think is going to win that game.

“We didn’t against Leicester so there is always going to be criticism.

“And Cristiano is an absolute top player, we know what he can do for us, he is doing everything he can do to help the team.”

United take on Liverpool this weekend after facing Atalanta.

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