Manchester United great Bryan Robson says Cristiano Ronaldo has lifted everyone connected to the club.

After Ronaldo's two-goal return for victory over Newcastle United, Robson wrote for the Daily Mail: "I've not sensed a buzz around Old Trafford like this since Eric Cantona arrived.

"I turned up at the stadium at 11.45am on Saturday and it was already packed outside. Even afterwards, when fans have normally gone home, they were milling around still savouring the atmosphere. Programmes that are normally left unsold or left behind on tables in the lounges were all being snapped up just because they mark the day Cristiano returned.

"I don't think I've ever seen so many stewards protecting a player when he was doing pitchside interviews afterwards. Lots of fans had stayed behind hoping to get a glimpse of him or an autograph. It's like a throwback to the glory days, he has given the place new-found belief.

"What Cristiano showed on Saturday is exactly what he can change for this team.

"Manchester United didn't give a particularly startling performance but this guy will make a difference. He senses opportunities, he is clinical, he is a level above.

"He has the charisma to captivate the crowd and lift them. The level of encouragement being received on Saturday was that normally afforded for opposition such as Liverpool, Manchester City or Chelsea."