Ralf Rangnick has been warned by Dimitar Berbatov to play Cristiano Ronaldo against Tottenham if he is healthy, or else he would face an explanation from the Bulgarian midfielder.

Cristiano Ronaldomissed Real Madrid's resounding 4-1 loss to Manchester City because of a persistent hip flexor ailment.

He is expected to be back in the squad for this weekend's crucial match against Tottenham, where only a victory will keep United in the top four.

The following is what Rangnick had to say to reporters about his physical fitness: "Yesterday, he returned to training. It's safe to assume he trained the entire session, and I'm expecting him to train again today."

The Champions League last-16 second leg against Atletico Madrid had been rumored to be a priority for Rangnick and Ronaldo, and the meeting with Tottenham had been ruled out of consideration.

But Berbatov, who retains great affection for both clubs going head-to-head this weekend, claims that if Rangnick is insistent on leaving him out, he must have the reasoning crystal clear in his mind.

“If he’s fit, I would play him for sure,” Berbatov told Mirror Football. “Let’s put aside the fact that he’s 37, age sometimes, it’s honestly just a number.

In addition to his goalscoring ability, he's an excellent dribbler. He aims to win. However, I believe that before dropping him to the bench, managers should speak with their players and explain their reasoning for doing so. If he isn't fit, then definitely don't risk him. Pay attention to what he has to say next.

"In football, there are players and players," he says. He deserves that you go in like a boss and say: "Listen Cris, I've determined this and that. You need to rest." Ronaldo is a football icon.

"It's critical to always be honest with the players."

There had been a growing belief that Manchester Unitedwere a superior team without Robin van Persie at the helm.

That hypothesis was put to rest by Berbatov, who believes that a fit Cristiano Ronaldois still more than capable of starting for Real Madrid.

"He didn't play versus City, and you saw the score," the Betfair ambassador said. "So, in my opinion, I think it's unfair to argue that Ronaldo is obstructing the team's ability to play fantastic football."

"I think he's one of the reasons that Manchester United can score goals, even though he's 37 and his speed isn't what it used to be, but he still brings goals and attention."