Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag explains Cristiano Ronaldo abandonment for Man City clash

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has revealed his decision to bench Cristiano Ronaldo for Sunday's Premier League clash against Manchester City. The Red Devils come into the game knowing that a win would see them move up to fourth in the table. And Marcus Rashford will spearhead their attack as they prepare to do battle at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester United have grown strong as they seek to beat Manchester City and earn derby bragging rights. David De Gea starts in goal, with the Spain international appearing in every game since Ten Hag's appointment as manager this summer.

Diogo Dalot and Tyrell Malacia have been deployed at full-backs, while Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane have joined at centre-back. In midfield, United have chosen Scott McTominay, Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes.

And, up top, Jadon Sancho and Antony start on each wing with Rashford then deployed as a striker as he looks to continue his recent impressive form. Before the game, Ten Hag was asked about his decision to drop Ronaldo.

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And he explained that Rashford's fitness was behind his thinking, with the England star set to lead the line. "He trained well, returned to team training and we took the right steps. He is in good shape."

Rashford struggled for United last season, scoring just five times as the club struggled under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick.

However, he has scored three goals already this season and was recently named Premier League Player of the Month for September.

Ten Hag himself won the Manager of the Month gong, having guided United to two out of two league wins.

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