Erik ten Hag says Manchester United still need Cristiano Ronaldo after watching his side draw against Chelsea (Picture: Sky Sports)
Erik ten Hag believes Manchester United’s performance against Chelsea on Saturday proves there is still a role for Cristiano Ronaldo to play for his side this season.
The Red Devils dominated the opening period at Stamford Bridge but were unable to convert the clear cut chances they created with Marcus Rahsford and Antony particularly culpable.
Graham Potter’s tactical changes disrupted United’s fluency in the second period and the home side looked as though they had secured a dramatic win through Jorginho’s late penalty.
Ten Hag’s side demonstrated admirable fight, however, rescuing a point with virtually the last act of the game through Casemiro’s outstanding header but Ten Hag conceded the five-time Ballon d’Or winner could have been the difference between a draw and collecting all three points had he been available for selection.
Asked if United missed Ronaldo, Ten Hag said: ‘Yes, always he can score a goal. He is valuable for us and we need him that’s clear. I think you see it also in this game that he can finish off that’s quite obvious.’
Pressed on whether he could fix his relationship with Ronaldo, Ten Hag added: ‘I think I have said enough about that situation.
‘Let’s focus on this game, it was a good game for my team and I have to really compliment my team.
Casemiro’s header earned Manchester United a point against Chelsea (Picture: Getty)
‘If you can deliver this after four games in 10 days you then dictate this first half, second half we were really well organised playing football and you fight back that has to be the focus.’
He added: ‘I have to make a big compliment to my team. To fight back with a fourth game in 10 days, you see the spirit and how they deal with setbacks. Really good.
‘First half Rashford had two big chances, Antony one against one. You have to score goals in such moments because in top games three chances is massive. You have to score.
‘We dictated the game and I am happy with that. If you concede a goal late it is difficult.
‘Eight minutes before half time we had some troubles but defence in the second half we didn’t have troubles. The second half we didn’t really create big chances, but also Chelsea didn’t.
‘I think it is a fair result. I would have been disappointed if we had gone without a point because we didn’t deserve that. At the end of a tough week to come here, you bring the point home.’
MORE : Graham Potter explains why he took off Chelsea star after just 36 minutes vs Man Utd
MORE : Bruno Fernandes speaks out on Cristiano Ronaldo uncertainty at Manchester United
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The 37-year-old might have made the difference at Stamford Bridge.