As a result of his absence from the previous week's Manchester Derby, the Portugal international returned to form by scoring a sensational treble to secure the Red Devils all three points against Tottenham in this crucial top-four clash.

Ronaldo had been questioned following a recent slump in form, but he proved everyone wrong with a magnificent performance at Old Trafford, and analyst Garth Crooks made an interesting observation regarding his improved performance during the match.

Ronaldo should be more prepared to take a break from football at his age, according to Crooks, who wrote a piece for BBC Sport. Ronaldo appears to be capable of world-class performances even if he isn't playing 90 minutes every week, as Crooks argued in his essay.
While it may seem odd for a player of his age to accept a lesser position in the Manchester United first-team, Crooks' suggestion is sound.

It was Crooks' observation that "just when you believe Spurs are making progress, something comes along to prove you wrong."

"Cristiano Ronaldo was the one to shatter Tottenham's fantasies that they could finish in the top four this season. At Old Trafford, Cristiano Ronaldo was in blistering form.

"With a potential hip injury, Ronaldo was omitted from the starting lineup against Manchester City. So, it's all for the best because he was looking worn out and seemed to be reaping the benefits.

As an outfielder and particularly as a striker nearing the age of 37, "here is a player who still wants to play every week but as a striker, someone should tell him that even he should give way to youth occasionally."