Why isn’t Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Portugal against Azerbaijan and will he make Man Utd debut against Newcastle?

PORTUGAL are heading to Azerbaijan for a crucial World Cup qualifier.

But captain Cristiano Ronaldo will play no part despite his last gasp brace to see off Ireland last Wednesday.

EPA

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his last minute winner for Portugal against Ireland[/caption]

The Portuguese are currently behind group leaders Serbia on goal difference and will therefore be looking for a big win in Baku.

Why is Cristano Ronaldo not playing for Portugal against Azerbaijan?

Cristiano Ronaldo will not play for Portugal against Azerbaijan because he is suspended.

The Portuguese captain received his second booking of the campaign for removing his shirt following his winner against Ireland.

Ronaldo’s first booking came due to furious protests in Serbia when he thought he’d scored a last minute winner but the linesman judged the ball not to have crossed the line.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo play for Man Utd against Newcastle?

Cristiano Ronaldo will be available to make his Man Utd debut against Newcastle on Saturday.

And it’s precisely because of his suspension that he is able to play.

Ronaldo was allowed to leave the Portugal camp early as he prepares to undergo a mandatory five days in isolation on arrival in England.

Had he played in Azerbaijan he would not have been out of isolation until the end of the weekend.