Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo left Old Trafford before full-time in Wednesday’s Premier League win over Tottenham.

It is understood Ronaldo briefly went into the dressing room before leaving the stadium.

Manager Erik ten Hag said after the game that he would “deal with” the issue on Thursday.

“I have seen him, but I haven’t spoken with him,” said Ten Hag.

United had made only three of their five permitted substitutions when Ronaldo got off the bench, shortly after Ten Hag brought on Christian Eriksen and Anthony Elanga.

Ronaldo also showed his displeasure at being substituted in Sunday’s 0-0 home draw with Newcastle.

Ten Hag said after that game that he had “no problem” with Ronaldo’s reaction but the player must convince him “he has to stay on”.

Former England striker Gary Lineker said Ronaldo’s behaviour took attention away from United’s impressive performance against Spurs.

“That is unacceptable – it is so poor,” Lineker said on BBC Match of the Day.

Ex-Wales captain Ashley Williams said: “It was a great night for Manchester United and here we are again talking about Cristiano Ronaldo – even though he didn’t play.”

Former England defender Micah Richards said: “For one of the greats of the game to do that when your team are winning, making it about him, is disappointing.”

Richards said Ronaldo’s behaviour was “disrespectful” and he should be allowed to leave in the January transfer window.

“His manager had problems with him at the start of the season, during pre-season, and to then carry this on… I just think there is only one way this needs to go now,” Richards told BBC Radio 4.

“They need to come to an agreement in January and they need to let him go. He is undermining the manager there, so I think it’s best if they just part ways.”

Former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel said Ronaldo would have been aware such behaviour would create “headlines”.

“It’s the first time I can say that I am disappointed with him. Normally I back him; I understand his situation,” Schmeichel told BBC Radio 5 Live.

“We are in transition. Manchester United are now five managers down the road since Alex Ferguson.

“We have got Erik ten Hag in now who has very clear ideas about the way he wants to play football. We need understanding and time from everyone.

“We don’t need distractions like that, and that’s a disappointment, I would say.”

‘Disrespectful’ and ‘sums his attitude up’ – your thoughts on Ronaldo’s early exit

Ed: Disrespectful of Ronaldo to walk down the tunnel early rather than waiting to congratulate his team-mates on the pitch. Being a great doesn’t stop at scoring goals.

Manny: Ronaldo walking down the tunnel instead of staying to celebrate the win with his team-mates pretty much sums his attitude up. Donny van de Beek had it a lot worse for two whole seasons and stayed more professional than the “most professional player in the game”.

Dr Che: Ronaldo’s recent antics betray his widely acclaimed professionalism. He needs to be reminded that he is almost 38.

Mike Greenwood: Poor from Ronaldo, he’s separating himself completely from the current squad. He’ll always be a legend at Old Trafford but he needs dropping from the squad as he’s now doing more harm than good.

Mike: We always play better without Ronaldo.