Ronaldo, who scored a hat-trick and two other goals against the
Magpies last season, remains the subject of an unrelenting transfer
saga involving Spanish champions Real Madrid.
While all initial sources point to the Portuguese staying at the
club, lingering doubt remains due to the fact he regularly states
it is his dream to play in Spain and several reports, albeit of
questionable integrity, have put his position at Old Trafford in
serious doubt.
With the fixtures for the new Premier League season being announced
this morning, the Toon Army travel to Manchester on the opening
day, and assistant manager Terry McDermott believes United could
suffer a slow start as they did last season, still hungover from
Champions League and Premier League glory, as well as several of
their players having played at Euro 2008 and the Beijing
Olympics.
"If there is a good time to play Manchester United at Old Trafford
it's the start of the season," insisted McDermott.
"Don't forget Reading went there last season and got a draw, and in
their next two matches they also drew at Portsmouth and lost to
Manchester City.
"Let's hope we can cash in by catching them early on like these
teams did last season and when they are still celebrating winning
the Premiership and Champions League.
"And let's also hope that Ronaldo, who scored five goals against us
last season, is not with them come August.
"He is one of several Manchester United men in the Euro finals, and
they will not have a normal pre-season.
"In addition, Manchester United will be travelling all over the
world before we go there on August 16, and all we can do – and what
Kevin will be making sure we do – is to prepare properly for our
new season, when hopefully we will also have some new
signings."