Cristiano Ronaldo: Expert issues claim on new Man United punishment after key development
Kevin Phillips has insisted Cristiano Ronaldo should face no further punishment for his actions after Man United fell 1-0 away at Everton on Saturday (9 April).
The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, conceded the 37-year-old footballing icon “should know better”.
Footage has emerged of Ronaldo smacking a phone out of the hand of a young Everton supporter as he limped down the tunnel after the final whistle on Saturday.
According to Football Insider expert and former Premier League referee Keith Hackett (11 April), the Portuguese could face FA action as a consequence of his “petulant” outburst.
However, Phillips insisted it is best to draw a line under the incident.
“He should know better,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs.
“But every player has been there. You’re frustrated after a massive loss.
“He’s one of the most photographed men in the world, and that can get to you.
“He shouldn’t have done it, yes, but he’s apologised – and should be the end of it.
“The people in the crowd have never done what he’s done, play professional football in front of these massive crowds – it’s their livelihoods.
“I’m not defending what he’s done in any way, but I’m sure that kid will get a surprise from Ronaldo – and that would make any kid’s day.
“As far as I’m concerned, that’s the end of it.”
The Portuguese apologised for the “outburst” on Instagram (10 April), claiming “it is never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments”.
As quoted by the Liverpool Echo (11 April), the fan’s mother insisted Man United and Ronaldo have dealt with the situation “terribly” – as the Merseyside Police continue to investigate.
In other news, pundit claims Man United could seal three more “brilliant” appointments after source’s Erik ten Hag update.