Van Nistelrooy's first words as Man Utd interim manager

Manchester United confirmed the sacking of Erik ten Hag as Red Devils boss on Monday, leaving former United legend Van Nistelrooy to take his place as interim boss while a replacement for the former Ajax boss is sought.

Ruud van Nistelrooy wrote his first words in the United Review after being appointed interim boss and hopes to move on from his side's inconsistent form by advancing to the next round of the EFL Cup against Leicester City.

In the statement, the former Dutch player said he was grateful to Ten Hag for bringing him to the club and although he is saddened by the manager's departure, he was grateful that he was trusted to give him the opportunity to be on the Manchester United staff.

Van Nistelrooy's full statement is as follows:

“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. 

Thankfully, we have time on our side and with fixtures coming so regularly now, we also have plenty of opportunities to build up some positive momentum, starting with tonight’s visit of Steve Cooper and Leicester City in the Carabao Cup."