Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has said Cristiano Ronaldo will contest an English Football Association charge of improper conduct following a game at Everton last season.
Sources have said that while United and Ronaldo will not deny the incident took place, the club plan to argue against a suspension because of a belief that such a punishment would be “disproportionate.”
“We spoke about that [the charge] and he will not accept it,” Ten Hag told a news conference on Wednesday.
Ronaldo is in contention to start against Omonia Nicosia in the Europa League on Thursday after scoring his 700th club goal in the 2-1 win at Everton on Sunday.
Anthony Martial has been ruled out of the game after his early substitution against Frank Lampard’s side — his third separate injury already this season.
“I’ve had several talks about that with him and I’m really disappointed for him,” Ten Hag said. “From the quality, all the minutes he played, he played well, even Sunday the assist for Antony, the pressing was good, he was an important factor and played well.
“But obviously, he fell out and it’s disappointing for him and disappointing for the team as well. I want every player to be available, sometimes it’s disappointing when they’re not available, especially with all the games coming up.
