HAS IT ALL GONE RON FOR FERGIE?

Sir Alex was key to bringing Ronaldo back to Old Trafford but even his influence may now not be enough to make him stay

- JEREMY CROSS

IT FEELS like the relationship between Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson and Cristiano Ronaldo has turned full circle.

Around 12 months ago United were in the throes of luring Ronaldo back to Old Trafford after stealing him from under the noses of their neighbours.

And Ferguson was instrumental in helping United pull off the most stunning deal of that transfer window.

One quick phone call from Fergie to Ronaldo was all it took to help persuade the Portuguese superstar to snub Pep Guardiola and go back to his spiritual home instead.

But almost a year later it appears that Fergie has been called upon again – only this time in a bid to persuade Ronaldo to stay.

Yet it is doubtful the legendary Scot will be able to have the same impact this time round as Ronaldo continues to look for an escape route from United.