For this reason, those same critics would have preferred that the club utilised the money spent to secure the services of a younger attacking prospect in the summer instead. He was unavailable for Tuesday’s trip to Anfield, understandably granted compassionate leave following the tragic death of his newborn son. The hopeless nature of United’s attacking performance against Liverpool without Ronaldo did go some way to vindicating those who continue to defend the Portuguese superstar. United were second best throughout, meaning attacking opportunities were few and far between for Marcus Rashford who led the line in Ronaldo’s place. Yet in those rare moments when United did break out, Rashford offered little for United to build upon.

Source: Daily Mirror April 20, 2022 17:39 UTC