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Ruud van Nistelrooy kick start his tenure as Leicester City manager on a high note with the Foxes securing a vital 3-1 victory over West Ham in his first match in charge.
The Dutchman, who replaced Steve Cooper after his sacking, guided Leicester to a much-needed win at King Power Stadium on Tuesday, following a tough 4-1 defeat to Brentford in his first weekend as manager.
Van Nistelrooy watched his new side from the stands during the Brentford loss, but was in the dugout for the crucial match against the Hammers.
Jamie Vardy’s early goal set the tone for Leicester, and they held on for the three points, which lifted them to 15th in the Premier League standings.
Speaking after the game, the 48-year-old was satisfied with the result, but insisted there’s much work to be done.
“We know the level in the Premier League and we know every game we play that everything has to be right.”
“We have to train and develop our defence, our counter attack, our possession. Lots of things to work on but very happy with the three points.”
“You can do all the talking you want, but if the players actually believe him and follow what he is saying, then it can be very powerful. The best way to get belief is by winning football matches.”
Speaking on his first few days in charge, Van Nistelrooy described them as “very busy” as he worked to get to know the players and staff.
“It’s been very busy getting to know everyone,” he said. “Everybody was involved with that and helping. It was busy and long days but worth it.”
Ruud Van Nistelrooy Pain Exit from Manchester United
Van Nistelrooy’s recent past includes a bittersweet departure from Manchester United, where he served as interim manager after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal.
However, he also understood the decision for new manager Ruben Amorim to bring in his own team.
“I was disappointed, yeah, very much so, and it hurt that I had to leave,” he said.
“My first three seasons as a professional were in Dutch football with FC Den Bosch, so I know what it’s like to fight.”
With Leicester now two points ahead of 16th-placed West Ham, Van Nistelrooy is determined to bring the same fighting spirit that characterized his playing career to help the Foxes avoid relegation.
After just a few days at the helm, Van Nistelrooy is already making his mark at Leicester, and the victory has provided fans with renewed hope for the season ahead.
