Surgery decision pending Friday, July 04, 2008 Manchester United have given a clear indication that they are still planning to have Cristiano Ronaldo at their disposal next season by sending club doctors to Portugal to asses the ankle injury he aggravated while in action for his country during Euro 2008.
Though a medical inspection sounds rather inconsequential, it does hold some significance as it was the first time that Manchester United officials have met with their star since he publicly declared a desire to join Real Madrid.
"Manchester United medical staff met with the medical teams of the Portuguese FA and Cristiano Ronaldo in Lisbon regarding the ongoing treatment of an injury to his right ankle," read a statement on the clubs official website.
"As a result, further specialist advice is being sort and an announcement will be made on any action in due course."
Ronaldo has been at the centre of football’s most expensive tug-of-war since May’s Champions League final ended with a Manchester United victory.
United and Real Madrid have been embroiled in an undignified scrap for the Portuguese, with the player apparently happy to stoke the flames by steadfastly refusing to rule out a blockbuster move.
