Ralf Rangnick is set to stand by Cristiano Ronaldo and will start the forward in Sunday’s Manchester derby, according to reports.

In his first season back at Old Trafford, Ronaldo started the campaign well by scoring eight goals in his first 15 league appearances, while he also played a key role in helping United navigate their way into the Champions League knockout rounds.

However, the goals have dried up since the turn of the year as he has found the net just once in his last 10 matches in all competitions.

In his latest outing against Watford, Ronaldo missed several chances as United were held to a goalless draw.

His wayward finishing may have left some wondering whether his place in the side would be at risk against Manchester City, but Rangnick will name him in his starting XI, as reported by The Sun.

It is understood that Rangnick is optimistic that Ronaldo will benefit from the eight-day break in between games, and could be reinvigorated at the Etihad Stadium.

The 37-year-old was dropped for the Red Devils’ clash against Burnley last month, yet on this occasion, Rangnick is expected to select the 37-year-old to play.

His decision may be partly due to a lack of alternatives as fellow forward Edinson Cavani has missed United’s last four league fixtures with a groin injury.

If Ronaldo does get the nod, United are likely to need him to be firing on all cylinders against the defending champions.

They lost the reverse fixture against Pep Guardiola’s men back in November, in what turned out to be Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s final home game at the helm.

The side are also in a precarious position when it comes to qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

They currently occupy fourth spot, but find themselves just two points above Arsenal, and the Gunners have three games in hand.