Man Utd remove Instagram post after Kevin Pietersen launches scathing attack on ‘clown’ Ten Hag over Ronaldo treatment
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MANCHESTER UNITED deleted an Instagram post after being bashed by Kevin Pietersen over Erik ten Hag's treatment of Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Red Devils' official Instagram account posted a throwback picture of the former England cricketer at Old Trafford to help promote the upcoming T20 World Cup.
But Pietersen took exception to the use of his image, commenting on the post: "Please take my picture down?
“I don’t want an association with a club that’s managed by a clown who is completely disrespecting the greatest footballer of our time.
“[Cristiano Ronaldo] is the BOSS! That clown who no one will ever remember needs a wake-up!”
The club duly obliged, but not before Pietersen's demand was liked and screenshotted by thousands of fans.
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Ten Hag has been unwavering in his treatment of Ronaldo since succeeding Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as United boss last summer.
The Dutchman was adamant the club legend wouldn't be sold but has refused to compromise his vision for the team by guaranteeing him a place in the starting XI.
Ronaldo, 37, has had to make do with a place on the bench this season and his frustrations boiled over in United's 2-0 win over Tottenham last week.
The Portuguese superstar refused to come on for the final few minutes of the match and stormed down the tunnel.
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Ten Hag responded by dropping the five-time Ballon d'Or winner from the matchday squad for Saturday's trip to Chelsea.
Ronaldo addressed his actions on social media, but fell short of an apology, saying: "As I've always done throughout my career, I try to live and play respectfully towards my colleagues, my adversaries and my coaches," read his statement.
"That hasn't changed. I haven't changed. I'm the same person and the same professional that I've been for the last 20 years playing elite football, and respect has always played a very important role in my decision-making process.
";I started very young, the older and most experienced players examples were always very important to me.
"Therefore, later on, I've always tried to set the example myself for the youngsters that grew in all the teams that I've represented.
"Unfortunately that's not always possible and sometimes the heat of the moment gets the best of us.
"Right now, I just feel that I have to keep working hard in Carrington, support my teammates and be ready for everything in any given game.
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"Giving in to the pressure is not an option. It never was. This is Manchester United, and united we must stand. Soon we'll be together again."
Manchester United will be back in action on Thursday evening, welcoming Moldovan side Sheriff to Old Trafford for their penultimate Europa League Group E match.