Souness launches staunch defence of Ronaldo and blames Ten Hag

Graeme Souness has backed Man Utd forward Cristiano Ronaldo’s incredible outburst (Image: TALKSPORT / TWITTER / TALKTV)Graeme Souness has backed Cristiano Ronaldo’s fiery attack on Manchester United and blames boss Erik ten Hag for the striker’s behaviour. Ronaldo has conducted a blockbuster interview with Piers Morgan in which he takes aim at Ten Hag and the Old Trafford Hierarchy. Ronaldo tried to leave United in the summer transfer window, having grown frustrated by the club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League. However, it is alleged that Ten Hag told the veteran forward that he remained in his plans for the forthcoming season. Souness believes the Red Devils head coach has since failed to make good on that promise. Ronaldo remained an unused substitute during the 6-3 Manchester derby defeat earlier in the campaign, before the 37-year-old refused to be used in a win over Tottenham several weeks later. Asked if he can still defend Ronaldo after his interview, Souness told talkSPORT: ‘I certainly do. I come back to it, there’s a meeting, two people speak. Two people come out of the meeting with an understanding, and someone has not kept their word.’It was then put to the Scot that Ronaldo’s behaviour was unacceptable. But Souness rebutted that suggestion, adding: ‘He feels it’s time for… He’s never spoken. He feels it’s time for him to come out and give his side of the story. ‘This is, in many people’s eyes, the greatest player who has ever kicked a football. He has been told a story and the manager has not kept it.After this so-called ‘agreement’, he doesn’t bring him on against City. His manager is asked about it and [tells journalists], ‘it’s out of respect’. ‘Weeks later, he’s wanting him to go on against Tottenham with two minutes to go. The game’s won. What can Ronaldo do there? And then he makes him captain. ‘That, for me, I think the player has a grievance. He’s entitled to air his grievances.’We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/footballStay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.