Cristiano Ronaldo pays homage to Sir Alex Ferguson ahead of Old Trafford return

The Portugal international forward returns to England in the Champions League match against his former club, Manchester United on Tuesday evening. 

The 33-year old Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson as the former Red Devils forward prepares for a "special" return to Old Trafford with Juventus.

United play host to Juventus in a Champions League on Tuesday, which means once again, Ronaldo is back at Old Trafford as an opposition player, after he helped Real Madrid to knock Manchester United out of the 2013 campaign.

Under Ferguson, Ronaldo won three Premier Leagues, the Champions League and the Club World Cup, sent a "big hug" to his former club, who after undergoing brain surgery in May, was welcomed back to Old Trafford in September. 

"This is special moment for me to return to Manchester," said CR7, who has five goals in 10 matches since he arrived from Real Madrid in the summer.

"In United, I have got so many memories of success and love and most importantly with Sir Alex Ferguson, to whom I send a big hug. He is a man that has helped me so much."

With Ronaldo being familiar with United, He says the match will not be an easy task and that Juventus "have their weapons".

CR7, as he’s being fondly called said "I’m certain it's not going to be easy, but I think we stand a chance.” "We need to show some respect to Manchester United, because they have an experience team and coach, but I’m optimistic we will win the game.

"It is going to be difficult. Manchester United are an experienced side, they are at home and it is not gonna be easy for us. But we have what it takes to win."

Ronaldo returned from a one-match suspension to make the United match, following his sent off in Juventus' opening group win away to Valencia and missed the win over Young Boys.

"Though I'm returning from suspension but Champions League started two matches ago," Ronaldo said.

"The fact that I was sent off doesn't matter and that I didn't play. We are in a great form and a win goes a long way."