Manchester United: Cristiano Ronaldo defended by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after pressing criticism
Ronaldo’s lack of pressing questioned after United’s run of four defeats in seven
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has defended Cristiano Ronaldo’s tactical role, insisting that he is doing everything he can despite lack of pressing as part of Manchester United’s attack.
United were roundly criticised for their failure to shut down Leicester City during Saturday’s 4-2 defeat at the King Power Stadium.
Brendan Rodgers’ side played through the lines easily, with the Leicester manager later admitting that a lack of pressing through the centre of United’s team made it easier for them to create scoring chances.
Ronaldo has pressed opponents fewer times than any other Premier League player in his position and was among the least active forwards in European football for pressing last season.
The 36-year-old’s reluctance to press has been identified by some as a problem for United but Solskjaer suggested that Ronaldo has different tactical duties to his team-mates.
“We’ve got 11 players on the pitch with different roles and responsibilities,” he said. “We put a team out there that we think is going to win that game, we didn’t win against Leicester so there’s always going to be criticism.
“Cristiano is an absolute top player and we know what he can do for us and he’s doing everything he can do to help the team.”
Solskjaer described United’s fourth defeat in seven games as an “eye-opener” and is hoping for a response against Atalanta at Old Trafford on Wednesday night, with his side having already lost once in their Champions League group stage campaign.
“It’s not a gimmicky, jovial, happy camp,” Solskjaer admitted. “They’re focused and determined.
“You look at yourself, what can I do to help the team. I've seen a reaction from the players, conceding four goals is a big eye-opener for us that we need to improve on different levels and loads of details.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments