Fergie Backs Ronaldo

Sir Alex Ferguson has come out fighting for Cristiano Ronaldo, who received soem criticism in the Press for his reaction to being kicked all game at Aston Villa, and then abused by thousands of Villa fans (he told them to shhh and pointed out that he was number 1 in the World!)

Ferguson said: "I've seen criticism of Ronaldo saying that he couldn't take it on Saturday but I wonder how many people would take it if they were walking down the street and so many people hit them over the head with a baton?

"He was tackled many times on Saturday, most of the time fairly, but a few occasions they weren't good and he didn't get the decisions he deserved. But that's the mantle you carry as a great player."

When asked if Ronaldo was playing a dangerous game by reacting to the crowd, however, the United manager added: "Tell me someone who likes getting abused? Will you please point them out to me?"

Ronaldo is set to play against Villareal tonight after completing training yesterday, although Sir Alex is keen to rest him ahead of the Manchester Derby on Sunday.