Sir Alex Ferguson has emphasised to Cristiano Ronaldo the importance of eradicating play-acting from his repertoire, after the Manchester United manager grew concerned that his talented winger was becoming better known for his diving than his ball skills.

As Ferguson prepared for Wednesday's Champions League conclusion to Group D against Fenerbahce, Ferguson also revealed that several of United's established players had warned Ronaldo about the dangers of getting a reputation.

"The part we really wanted to add to his game was him not overplaying things to get fouls," he said. "He has improved in that area because he has learned from the other players about the way we are here. He has matured. No matter how many fouls he gets he keeps going."

Ronaldo's place on yesterday's flight to Turkey was unexpected, particularly since Ferguson has allowed every other player who began Saturday's defeat of Southampton to remain at home to rest before the Premiership game at Fulham on Monday.