Van Nistelrooy calls for positive reaction from Man United ahead of first game in charge

Ruud van Nistelrooy has urged Manchester United to quickly revive their season before it’s too late, as he gets ready for his first game as interim head coach, Soccernet.football reports.

After rejoining Old Trafford in July as an assistant coach, Van Nistelrooy will now lead the Red Devils in their EFL Cup match against Leicester City, following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag.

United are currently in discussions to appoint Sporting’s Ruben Amorim as their permanent manager. The Portuguese club have confirmed United’s approach and willingness to pay Amorim’s €10 million release clause.

Van Nistelrooy, initially brought in to support Ten Hag, will now oversee the first team until a permanent successor is appointed.

Writing in United’s matchday programme, Van Nistelrooy said, as quoted on the club’s website: “Good evening and welcome to Old Trafford.

“As I am sure everyone can imagine, I am writing these notes with a huge amount of mixed emotions.

“Erik ten Hag brought me back to Manchester United in the summer and, while I have only been part of the coaching staff here for a few months, I will always be grateful to him for giving me the opportunity, and I am saddened to see him leave.

“Even on an interim basis, it is a great honour to manage the club I love for however long I am asked to do so.

“I can promise that I will continue to give my all, in whatever capacity, to try to turn around our fortunes.

“Despite our results, I am loving being back at Old Trafford and working with the team and staff every day. We’ve seen the squad’s potential at times this season, but clearly not often enough.

“Now is the time for everyone at the club to work together, give everything and turn this season around while we have time.

“From my experiences as both a player and a coach here, I can say for sure that when players, staff and supporters pull together, Manchester United can be unstoppable.”