"He could have the same effect Eric Cantona did all those years ago"

Gary Pallister believes Cristiano Ronaldo could have the same effect as Eric Cantona at Manchester United as the Portuguese superstar prepares to make his second debut for the club against Newcastle on Saturday.

The former United defender, who spent nine years under Sir Alex Ferguson and won four Premier League titles, believes Ronaldo's professionalism will mean he is a great transfer-window signing.

The ex-England centre-half told FreeSuperTips.com: "I don't think it automatically turns United into title contenders, but it's a boost and I think it certainly gives everyone at the club a lift.

"It's exciting for the players, the staff and most importantly the fans, to have someone that is almost like the prodigal son returning.

"I don't think anyone expected it to happen and I think everybody is buzzing with the news.

"It's great to see him back in a red shirt and it can only be a positive.
He's been in the top two in the Serie A top goalscoring charts in the past two years and it's one thing he guarantees you, goals.

"His professionalism is there for everyone to see, the way he looks after himself and the way he pushes himself to be the best he can be.

"I think he could have the same effect Eric Cantona did all those years ago when he walked into our dressing room.

"We saw the professionalism he brought to Manchester United back then, so I think it's a great piece of business."

Pallister said Ronaldo is a different player to the one who arrived in Manchester from Sporting Lisbon in 2003 and he thinks the 34-year-old can win the Golden Boot in the Premier League this season.

"I think he's got to be feared, his game has changed. He isn't that winger who destroys fullbacks and creates anymore. He's a goal scorer now.

"There was a debate on whether he was one of the greatest goalscorers to play the game and I would say so.

"His goalscoring record speaks for itself, and he still has that heading ability as we've seen for Portugal recently.

"He's not got that lightning pace anymore, but he's still quick and he's adapted his game over the years, so he brings a lot of experience with him.

"You have to say he can win the Golden Boot this season, especially when you've got Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba pulling the strings and creating chances for him.

"When you've got Jadon Sancho, Mason Greenwood, Marcus Rashford and Edinson Cavani in your squad as well, you've got to think they'll create chances for you.

"Without doubt Ronaldo will be getting on the end of that service and he's got an excellent chance of finishing as the league's top scorer."

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