The omission of Cristiano Ronaldo from United's squad to face Glentoran on Wednesday is merely a precautionary measure against a minor ankle injury.

The Portuguese winger had been expected to line up against the Glens at the Oval, but was conspicuous by his absence as the Reds flew to Belfast on Wednesday morning.

A Club spokesman told ManUtd.com: "Cristiano has been left out of tonight’s friendly against Glentoran with a slight ankle knock. He was left in Manchester as a precaution.

"He will train on Friday and is expected to be fit for Sunday’s game against Reading."

The news is a further boost to Sir Alex Ferguson, who was able to include knee injury victim Paul Scholes in the squad for Wednesday's other friendly - the Scott Thomson testimonial against Dunfermline, which is live on MUTV Online.