Cristiano Ronaldo sends ‘heart-warning’ message to Man Utd fans after injury scare ahead of Manchester Derby

Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United has brushed down fears that he could be ruled out of next weekend’s derby against Manchester City due to a facial injury sustained while on international duty with Portugal.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who scored his first goal of the season just over a week ago in United’s 2-0 Europa League win over Sheriff Tiraspol, was left with blood streaming from his nose after colliding with goalkeeper Tomas Vaclik during Portugal’s 4-0 win over the Czech Republic in Prague on Saturday evening.

With only 13 minutes on the clock, Ronaldo collided with Vaclik, who later assisted Diogo Jota’s fourth goal for Portugal. The Czech Republic goalie slammed his arms into the United star’s face. It was an entirely unintentional incident, yet it left Ronaldo in need of medical attention.

Fortunately for him, Portugal, and United, he was able to continue and complete the entire game. And, in the aftermath of the 4-0 triumph, the 37-year-old made no mention of his injury on social media, implying that he has sustained no long-term harm and is fit to play in Portugal’s crucial match against Spain on Tuesday evening.

Ronaldo posted on his Instagram page: “Great game, crucial team victory! We maintain our concentration on our aim. Thank you to the Portuguese crowd for their tremendous support.”

Ronaldo, who also suffered an ankle injury during the game, will be looking to assist Portugal to reach the Nations League finals when they face Spain in their last Group A2 match on Tuesday. The 2016 European Championship winners will only need a point in Braga to secure first place.

With a win, Spain might leapfrog them and take first place, indicating that the contest has a lot riding on it. Meanwhile, goals from Diogo Dalot (2) and Bruno Fernandes powered United’s victory over the Czechs.