Alan Brazil: Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card must be rescinded to set up Manchester United return

I still can’t believe Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off in the Champions League the other night.

His was one of the softest, most ridiculous red cards I’ve seen at that level of the game.

For me, the referee has got it wrong.

The whistler pretty clearly went to the fourth official before making the decision, so it seems like he’s been given duff information.

There’s no way Ronaldo pulls his opponent by the hair.

Violent conduct? Give me a break.

If there is any justice or –as seems to be the running theme of today’s column, common sense – in the world, Ronaldo’s red card will be rescinded on appeal.

I’ve been receiving Tweets all week from people saying Ronaldo deserved to walk as punishment for all the times he has dived and conned referees in his career.

But I don’t think folk saying that can have watched much of the guy over the last decade.

Fair enough, as a youngster at Manchester United, Ronaldo was prone to the odd dive.

But these days? No chance.

The Juventus star should be reprieved and given the chance to return to Old Trafford next month in the Champions League – for what might be the last time.