Ferguson expects Ronaldo support

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The prospective world footballer of the year spent much of the summer believing he would end up at Real Madrid with the long-running saga leading to many Red Devils supporters openly criticising the former Sporting Lisbon star.

But Ferguson said: "I don't think he has to win the fans over. They understand he is a young man who has been tempted by the lure of money."

He added: "He said he would like to go to Real Madrid but he has shown fantastic maturity in the last few weeks. He has accepted the situation and got on with it.

"There is no pettiness and he has not thrown his toys out of the pram. There are no issues at all regarding Cristiano."

Ferguson has nothing but praise for the dedication Ronaldo has shown towards his recovery from ankle surgery.

"It has given us a lift having Cristiano around because you are talking about a truly magnificent player," said the Scot.

"He will certainly be involved but it is more likely he will start on the bench.

"He has been one of the best patients I have ever seen.

"He has been here every day right through until 5pm. He has shown a real desire to get back playing for us."