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Cristiano Ronaldo has issued a response after being dropped by Manchester United following his decision to leave the Spurs game early.

WHAT HAPPENED? The Portugal international has offered an explanation for his early exit against Tottenham on Wednesday on Instagram. Ronaldo was an unused substitute in Manchester United's 2-0 win and was spotted leaving before the final whistle. The Red Devils have subsequently confirmed he has been dropped for Saturday's Premier League clash with Chelsea.

WHAT THEY SAID: "As I’ve always done throughout my career, I try to live and play respectfully towards my colleagues, my adversaries and my coaches. That hasn’t changed. I haven’t changed. I’m the same person and the same professional that I’ve been for the last 20 years playing elite football, and respect has always played a very important role in my decision making process.

"I started very young, the older and most experienced players examples were always very important to me. Therefore, later on, I’ve always tried to set the example myself for the youngsters that grew in all the teams that I’ve represented. Unfortunately that’s not always possible and sometimes the heat of the moment get’s the best of us.