Champions’ League last-16 preview: Prodigal son Ronaldo returns to the Old Trafford

Man Utd are in slightly better position to progress to the next stage of the Champions League, after holding Real Madrid to a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu. However the Meringues have been in excellent form lately, which can be proved by a 2-1 victory over mighty Barcelona. The focus of attention will be on the return of ex-Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo to the Old Trafford for the first time since his big-money switch to the La Liga side.

Real Madrid team news:

Skipper Iker Casillas has returned to full training following his hand injury picked up on January 23, however Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is unlikely to risk the player in the crucial match at the Old Trafford.

Marcelo is also back to the squad, having recovered from the injury and will compete with the Fabio Coentrao for the position of left-back in the starting XI.

Mourinho has rested plethora of key players for the La Liga game against Barcelona including Di Maria, Ozil, Khedira, Arbeloa and Ronaldo and all of them are expected to return in the starting line-up for the Champions’ League encounter.

Manchester United team news:

Phil Jones is a major doubt for Real Madrid game after damaging his ankle, while Tom Cleverley is expected to come in for Manchester United in midfield.

Rio Ferdinand will return to the starting line-up after missing the game against Norwich due to illness.

John Evans is believed to team up with Ferdinand at the heart of Man Utd defense, with Nemanja Vidic to be left on the bench.