Man Utd boss Ten Hag reveals Cristiano Ronaldo was only his FOURTH choice captain after ace took armband against Villa

CRISTIANO RONALDO was Erik ten Hag’s FOURTH choice to be captain in Manchester United’s defeat at Aston Villa.

The 37-year-old forward was handed the armband as the Red Devils slipped to a 3-1 defeat at Villa Park on Sunday.

Eyebrows were raised that he was given the nod to lead out the side after his recent row with boss Erik ten Hag after his walkout against Tottenham and despite him failing to secure a summer exit.

Ronaldo was named skipper due to club captain Harry Maguire being on the bench.

His deputy, Bruno Fernandes, was also suspended for the clash. 

Portuguese superstar Ronaldo was unable to make much impact, although he was involved in a fiery tussle with Tyrone Mings which led to him escaping a red card after a VAR check.

After the setback, Ten Hag was quizzed about his decision to make Ronaldo captain.

And he revealed that summer signing Casemiro was going to get the honour instead of the legendary goalscorer.

However, the Brazilian’s lack of English led to him opting for Ronaldo instead.

Ten Hag explained the rationale behind his decision afterwards.

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He said: “Harry Maguire is on the bench, our captain of the club.

“Then it is about David de Gea who is a leader but is a goalie and is far away from the outfield.

“Then Casemiro is the leader but he is not speaking perfect English so then Cristiano is the leader.”