Portugal manager Fernando Santos has said he has no worries about Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of the international break as the striker is called up once again.
Cristiano Ronaldo, compared to previous years, has had a poor start to the season.
He is yet to provide a goal or assist under Erik ten Hag, with the striker currently on the bench in the Premier League as Marcus Rashford continues his good form as striker.
Advert
Despite this, Santos has said he is not worried about Ronaldo and is confident that his ability is still at the top.
I have no worries (about Ronaldo), he will play later," said Santos. "He will start against the Sheriff."
Despite the line-ups yet to be confirmed, Ronaldo starting against FC Sheriff is not unexpected.
Marcus Rashford, who has not been called up to the England squad, is nursing a slight injury, and did not travel to Moldova with the rest of the squad.
Advert
With him (Ronaldo) with all the others, I try to understand what situation they find themselves in," Santos continued.
"I don't think anyone doubts that Cristiano Ronaldo continues to be important for the (Portugal) selection."
Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot have also been called up to the latest Portugal squad, with the latter setting himself as Manchester United's top choice right-back under Erik ten Hag so far.
Speaking on Ronaldo in his press conference on Wednesday, Erik ten Hag did not confirm or deny if Ronaldo would start against Sheriff.
Advert
"I'm sorry but the Moldovan fans will have to wait until tomorrow," said the Dutch manager when told that the Moldovan fans really want to know if Ronaldo is to start.
It is predicted that Ronaldo will start against Sheriff due to Rashford's injury, alongside Antony and Jadon Sancho to make up the attacking trio.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Donny van de Beek and Martin Dubravka are among those who did not travel.
Topics: Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo, Sheriff Tiraspol, Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United
Dylan Penketh