Solskjaer defends decision to not start Ronaldo against Everton

The Portuguese superstar failed to make the starting XI for the first time since rejoining the Red Devils in the summer.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insists his decision to drop Cristiano Ronaldo to the bench against Everton “was the correct one” despite Manchester United yet again slipping up.

Solskjaer made a number of changes for Saturday’s Premier League fixture as Manchester United prepared to play their second match in three days’ time.

Ronaldo, who helped his side seal a dramatic late 2-1 win over Villarreal in the Champions League last time out, started as a substitute and Edinson Cavani replaced him in the line-up.

The 36-year-old came on near the hour-mark but couldn’t make an impact in what was his 200th Premier League game.

Asked at full-time whether he regretted not starting Ronaldo, Solskjaer, as Sky Sports reports, bluntly responded: “No.

“You make decisions throughout a long, long season; you have to manage the players’ workload and the decision for me was the correct one.

“Anthony Martial did well, scored a good goal. Edinson needed minutes and could have had a goal. We have to make those decisions at the time.”

Solskjaer added: “I’m confident we will get the best out of this squad. A lot has happened this month [player arrivals].

“We have loads to work on but I do believe in these players and this coaching staff. I believe we have something going but proof is in the pudding.”