Xabi Alonso is confident that Cristiano Ronaldo will not let emotions of returning to Manchester United affect his performance for Real Madrid.
Ronaldo is back at Old Trafford this evening for a first competitive appearance since leaving The Red Devils in 2009.
Teammate Alonso believes that he will not let any reception he receive cloud his ability once the Champions League Last 16 second leg kicks off.
“I think he will have a great reception but once the kick-off happens, he will put it to one side and just be thinking about doing the best for our team,” Alonso told reporters in his pre-match Press conference.
“Hopefully it will be a great night for him, his performance will not be affected.
“It is very different to play with him rather than against him. I am lucky enough to say he is on my side now.
“He is on a very good run of form, he has been decisive and has lots of enthusiasm and excitement to face his former team.
“If he plays well, we will have more chances, but if we do not defend well then we will lose. It is not only Cristiano, others may also have the same impact.”
It is a return to England for Alonso, after his spell in the country with Liverpool.
“The fact I spent five years playing in England with Liverpool, there was a special rivalry but you don't really need to add anything to this match. Everyone will be glued to the television watching it.”
