Graeme Souness branded a ‘hypocrite’ for Cristiano Ronaldo comments after slating Romelu Lukaku

Graeme Souness has been accused of him being a “hypocrite” after his Cristiano Ronaldo comments contradict what he said about Romelu Lukaku.

Ronaldo has generated huge headlines after taking part in a lengthy interview with Piers Morgan, which will be aired on TalkTV later this week.

He also said he does not “have respect” for Erik ten Hag amid their strained relationship and slammed the club’s facilities, which he believes have not changed since his first spell.

Ronaldo has been widely criticised for the interview, which he asked for, and the timing of it.

Told by Jim White that he can no longer defend Ronaldo on talkSPORT, he said: “I certainly do, he’s never spoken and he feels it’s time for him to come out and tell his side of the story.

“This is a player who in many people’s eyes is the greatest player to ever kick a ball. I think with him, he has been told a story and the manager has not kept it.

“The manager doesn’t bring him on against City and says it is out of respect. A couple of weeks later he wants him to go on with two minutes to go against Tottenham, and then he makes him captain!

“Looking at it from both sides, I think the player has a grievance and he is entitled to air his grievance.”

Image: Alamy

However, Souness’ view is a little different to the one he aired back in January in a similar situation involving Romelu Lukaku.

He went on to add that Lukaku had “more than crossed the line”. It’s likely that Ronaldo, like Lukaku, will be hit with a hefty fine for his conduct.

United were not initially aware of the interview but say that they will wait for “the full facts” to be established before commenting further.

A statement on the club’s official website read: “Manchester United notes the media coverage regarding an interview by Cristiano Ronaldo.

“The club will consider its response after the full facts have been established.

“Our focus remains on preparing for the second half of the season and continuing the momentum, belief and togetherness being built among the players, manager, staff, and fans.”

Ronaldo, who refused to come on as a substitute against Spurs, has scored three times in 16 appearances in all competitions this term.