How Man United Could Line Up vs Sheriff for Crucial Europa League Clash As Ronaldo Prepares for Return

• Manchester United are scheduled to host Sheriff Tiraspol at Old Trafford for their fifth Europa League fixture on Thursday night
• Red Devils coach Erik ten Hag is expected to make several changes from the team that drew 1-1 against Chelsea over the weekend
• Cristiano Ronaldo, Donny van de Beek and Tyrell Malacia are all expected to feature, with Victor Lindelof slotting in for the injured Raphael Varane

Cristiano Ronaldo is in line to make a return to the Manchester United squad, when they take on Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League on Thursday night.

The veteran forward was recently banished from the first team by United boss Erik ten Hag, after he stormed off the pitch before the full-time whistle of the Premier League meeting with Tottenham.

Ten Hag's drastic decision saw Ronaldo miss the Red Devils' trip to Stamford Bridge over the weekend, where they drew 1-1 with Chelsea.

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However, the Dutchman has since confirmed the five-time Ballon d'Or winner will feature when United host Sheriff FC at Old Trafford.

Predicted Man United starting XI

David de Gea will no doubt start in goal for the Red Devils, with Victor Lindelof replacing the injured Raphael Varane at the heart of the defence.

Lindelof is expected to be partnered with Lisandro Martinez, as Diogo Dalot plays on the right. Luke Shaw is likely to be rested for the clash, with the move set to benefit Tyrell Malacia, who will slot in on the left.

In midfield, Donny van de Beek could be afforded a rare start alongside Casemiro, with Bruno Fernandes keeping his place as a No. 10. Ronaldo is already in line to replace Marcus Rashford as Jadon Sancho and Antony joins him on attack.

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Chelsea ready to pursue Cristiano Ronaldo

Sports Brief had earlier reported that Chelsea could pursue a stunning January transfer move for troubled Man United attacker Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ronaldo is in the final months of his contract at Old Trafford, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the ongoing season.

While United have the option of triggering a 12-month extension, that is unlikely to happen, especially after the veteran forward fell down the pecking order under Erik ten Hag.