Ron set for Carling Cup role

Phelan confirms winger is set for Carling Cup role

Last updated: 23rd September 2008

Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo: Carling Cup role

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Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan has confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo will play a role in Tuesday's Carling Cup game versus Middlesbrough as he looks to improve his match fitness.

Ankle surgery ruled the Portugal international out for the beginning of the new season, but he made his return to action as a substitute last week in the UEFA Champions League stalemate versus Villarreal.

Ronaldo also came off the bench on Sunday in the draw at Chelsea, and Phelan has intimated that the 23-year-old could be in line for a more involved role for the match at home to Boro.

"Cristiano is maybe a couple of weeks behind everybody else but his progression has been fantastic," said Phelan, who was confirmed as manager Sir Alex Ferguson's full-time assistant a fortnight ago.

"The work he has put into his recovery and training has been first class and he has been introduced into games for 15 or 20 minutes at a time.

"He knows he still needs a few more minutes to get to the level he wants to be at. Tonight is a great opportunity to do that, which is why his name is in the squad."

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