Manchester United video analysts believe Cristiano Ronaldo intimidated the players on the pitch during his 18 month return to Old Trafford.

The Athletic reports video analysts discovered one attacker would pass exclusively to Ronaldo during games seeking approval from the the Portuguese great.

The analysts were exploring why one United player was struggling for form and after examining footage they concluded he was passing to Ronaldo exclusively.

United teammates were also said to be 'overwhelmed' by his personality, with several in awe of him and seeming to 'cower in his presence', it is claimed.

Ronaldo, 38, is now playing in Saudi Arabia with Al Nasr.