WE’RE CRUMBLED
United stars now passing on puds after watching Ron refuse to tuck in
CRISTIANO RONALDO is whipping his teammates into shape – with Manchester United’s players refusing to eat dessert in front of the super-fit star.
Ronaldo is renowned for keeping himself in supreme condition, following a strict healthy diet and exercise regime to maximise his ability to deliver his best.
The 36-year-old proved his enduring worth by scoring twice on his emotional United return in a 4-1 win over Newcastle at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Goalkeeper Lee Grant joked none of United’s players dared have pudding at the team hotel the night before the game, because of Ronaldo’s influence.
“To give you one instance of the impact he’s having on the group, this was Friday night in the hotel,” said Grant. “You finish your dinner and usually you’ve got some cheat stuff out. You’ve got some apple crumble and custard or you’ve got a bit of brownie and cream.
“I tell you now, not one player touched the apple crumble and custard, not one player went up for that brownie, because everybody was sat down. We were having a little goosey gander at what he’s got and obviously it’s the cleanest, most healthy plate you can imagine.
“It just cracked me up, how not one single player dared get up and have that junk food that was laid out.
“I’ll tell you one of his plates – he had several. One of them was quinoa, avocado and a couple of boiled eggs.”
United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer laughed off Grant’s story but said Ronaldo’s discipline and dedication was an example to the rest of the squad.
“That was obviously a joke by Granty,” said Solskjaer.
“It’s not like we’re lined up with junk food and Cristiano changed it. He’s proven over the years how to look after yourself, how to prolong your career.
“When you retire, it’s the best time of your life, but stay in the game as long as you can, have a good attitude and let yourself go – as I’ve done now!”