Ron paying for diving reputation, says Giggs

RYAN GIGGS has backed Alex Ferguson’s claim that Cristiano Ronaldo is still paying for his reputation as a diver.

Ronaldo attracted plenty of criticism during the early days of his Manchester United career by going to ground far too easily under minimal contact.

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate felt it necessary to brand the Portugal winger ‘a cheat’ during one stormy meeting with the Red Devils at the Riverside last term when Ronaldo won his side a controversial penalty by falling over Mark Schwarzer.

Ferguson is convinced such rows were going through the mind of referee Rob Styles on Monday night when he inexplicably booked Ronaldo for diving in the Fulham box at Old Trafford despite the fact TV replays showed Antti Niemi getting nowhere near the ball as he slid out to confront the Portugal star.

And Giggs, while recognising Ronaldo’s blinding speed makes it difficult for a referee to make a split second decision, also believes that was the case. “I think he is paying for his reputation,” said the Welshman.

“He did have a reputation (for diving) when he first came over here but that has gone now.

“It is hard for the referee. Everything happens quickly, Ronny is running so fast and he has to make a split second decision.

“Maybe he didn’t give it because there was no contact. But Ronny was trying to avoid the goalkeeper and the keeper’s arms followed his legs. In my view that is not simulation.

And with Ronaldo’s exceptional current form, it is difficult to see United not being involved in the Premier League title shake-up next May even though they still trail leaders Arsenal by three points, a gap that will widen to six if the Gunners win their match in hand at Newcastle tonight.

With basement boys Derby due at Old Trafford on Saturday, United should maintain winning form heading into ‘Blockbuster Sunday’ on December 16 when they travel to Liverpool and Chelsea entertain Arsenal.

Those seismic battles should provide a few pointers as to the destination of the championship and with the packed Christmas programme to follow, a key stage in the battle for honours is looming. “We have said all season the league is going to be tight,” said Giggs. “There are some strong teams and the top four is starting to take shape now.

“It is always important to get good results over Christmas, so hopefully, we will get the right results and be somewhere near the top.

“We are not too bothered about being top at the turn of the year but as long as we are there or thereabouts we will be happy.”