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    UEFA Europa League News: Ronaldo won’t accept FA charges over phone-throw incident, says Ten Hag

    Cristiano Ronaldo will not accept the FA’s accusation that he threw the phone of an Everton fan, Manchester United manager Eric ten Hag has said.

    A video has surfaced on social media of United striker Ronaldo smashing a fan’s phone as he left the field following Everton’s 1-0 Premier League victory in April.

    The Portugal captain was questioned by Merseyside police in connection with the alleged assault and criminal damage and received a warning in August.

    Last month, the FA indicted the 37-year-old for violating the E3 rule, which deals with “inappropriate and/or violent conduct,” but the case now looks set to go to trial.

    Asked if Ronaldo was accepting the charge, Ten Hag told reporters on Wednesday: “We talked about it. He won’t accept it.”

    At the time, Ronaldo issued an apology on Instagram, stating: “It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments like the one we’re facing.

    “However, we must always show respect, patience and set an example to all young people who love a beautiful game.

    “I would like to apologize for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this fan to watch the game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair play and sportsmanship.”

    Ronaldo has had a disappointing time on the pitch for United this season, starting just one of eight first Premier League matches.

    However, he scored his second goal of the campaign in all competitions in Sunday’s 2–1 win over Everton after being introduced from the bench in the first half.

    And Ten Hag is pleased with how the superstar striker has returned to prime fitness after missing nearly all of United’s pre-season for personal reasons.

    “I want to support him the best I can,” Ten Hag said at a pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday’s Europa League group stage match against Omonia Nicosia.

    “We have certain requirements for the players, what we expect in certain positions. I want to get the most out of him and now he is in better shape and can contribute more.”

    Asked if his lack of fitness is the reason why Ronaldo rarely starts this season, Ten Hag said: “In the beginning it was.

    “Proved once again that no one can miss preseason.”

    Ronaldo was called up for the match against Everton after Anthony Martial suffered another injury, and as of Thursday, the striker has yet to return to training.

    “I had several conversations with him and I am very disappointed for him,” Ten Hag said. “Let’s see how it will develop in the run-up to Sunday. [against Newcastle United]”.

    Ten Hag also confirmed that Harry Maguire was still out, while Donny van de Beek and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were out “for a long time”.

    United beat Omonia 3-2 in Cyprus last week and are second in Group E, three points ahead of Sheriff and three points behind leaders Real Sociedad.

    Ten Hag’s side are facing a grueling series of matches on the home and European fronts, but the Dutchman says it’s important for his team to secure top spot in their group.

    “A few weeks ago, before the break, I told the players that it was important to win the group. “We want to win every game. Clearly, we want to avoid [finishing second].

    “I think all the clubs that play in Europe have the same problem. We have a squad to cover this. There will be injuries and suspensions, but you have to deal with it as a team.”

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