As featured on NewsNow: Football news

​Middlesbrough players BANNED from shirt-swapping with Man Utd stars

Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder has told his players they cannot ask for Cristiano Ronaldo's shirt under any circumstances.

The Championship side are set to take on Manchester United in the FA Cup on Friday.

United will be hoping to move into the fifth round, but they face a tricky tie against a team that is vying for a playoff spot in the second division.

Boro manager Wilder said about the game and facing the likes of Ronaldo: "Their team sheet will come in the dressing room and it'll be De Gea, Varane, Harry Maguire… let's not crumble in that process!

"They have some fabulous individuals that can hurt you, and hurt teams around Europe and the Premier League. A huge array of talent to choose from.

"But it is not sight-seeing for our players. It is not a shirt-swapping situation. I don't want people going to Old Trafford to enjoy the visit.

"If they want a shirt, do it in the changing rooms after. We don't want to be looking at them all fuzzy-eyed. They are up against a competitor.

"I want them to play well. To give a good account of themselves and make it a competitive, dangerous night for Manchester United."

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Ansser Sadiq

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