LONDON: Cristiano Ronaldo was influenced to return to Old Trafford after Alex Ferguson intervened at the last minute.

The former Manchester United manager snatched Ronaldo from Manchester City after contacting him yesterday morning.

Portugal team -mate Bruno Fernandes also contacted Ronaldo earlier and tried to persuade him to return to Old Trafford.

The combined persuasion of the two individuals managed to convince Ronaldo to end negotiations with the boss at the Etihad and move to the old club that has not won the English Premier League for eight years.

“Sir Alex plays a big role. Cristiano Ronaldo and Sir Alex have a bond that players rarely have with their managers.

“It’s not possible for Cristiano Ronaldo to be a Man United player without talking to Sir Alex Ferguson. It’s that simple,” said former United player Rio Ferdinand.