Cristiano Ronaldo after knocking mobile phone from Everton fan's hand: Difficult moments for Manchester United

Cristiano Ronaldo Instagrammed the above picture yesterday

Cristiano Ronaldo on Saturday apologised for knocking a mobile phone out of the hands of a supporter as he left the pitch following Manchester United's 0-1 defeat to Everton. Anthony Gordon scored Everton's match-winner in the 27th minute.

Footage that emerged on social media appeared to show Ronaldo clashing with an Everton supporter as he headed for the tunnel at Goodison Park. "It's never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing," Ronaldo, 37, wrote on Instagram.

"Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game. I would like to apologise for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship."

United's lacklustre performance at relegation-threatened Everton left them in seventh place in the table and six points off Tottenham Hotspur, who occupy the fourth and final Champions League spot. And manager Ralf Rangnick felt the Red Devils do not deserve to play European football next season if they carry on performing like this.

United have won just eight of the 17 Premier League games Rangnick has been in charge. "If we play like we did here, we just don't deserve it [to play in Europe]. The players themselves should be eager to play international football, if possible Champions League. In order to qualify for Europe, you have to be able to score in 95 minutes in a game like this," said Rangnick, who is due to stay on as an advisor at United once a full time replacement is named.

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