Ruud van Nistelrooy reveals true feelings on Ruben Amorim in final Man Utd programme notes

Ruud van Nistelrooy insists he will get right behind new Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim - even though he is still in the dark over his future.

Van Nistelrooy returned to United in the summer to become Erik ten Hag’s assistant and his four-game spell as caretaker boss, following his fellow Dutchman’s sacking, ended against Leicester on Sunday.

Van Nistelrooy is still waiting to hear if he will be part of Amorim’s new coaching staff when he Portuguese officially takes over tomorrow. The legendary United striker, who scored 150 goals in his five years at Old Trafford between 2001 and 2006, has put aside the uncertainty over his own position to urge fans to get behind Amorim.

“From tomorrow, I will be getting behind our new coach, Ruben Amorim, and I urge everyone who loves the club to do the same,” he wrote in his programme notes for Sunday’s match against Leicester. “I have worked with this squad every day since the summer and I can tell you that there is huge potential in these players, from the experienced pros down to the lads coming through the academy.

“The coaches, club staff and supporters all have a role in helping those players become the best they can be.

“Of course, it starts with players who hold themselves and each other accountable because playing for Manchester United requires massive character, hard work and dedication every single day.

“There is no hiding place, especially with today’s media environment, but this is the kind of challenge you have to relish and meet head-on. You have to show courage, you fight and you show your talent for yourself, for that badge on your shirt and, most importantly, for the greatest fans in the world.”

Van Nistelrooy was unbeaten in his three games before Leicester - winning two and drawing one - and he insists the future is bright for United.

United may have made their worst start to a league campaign since 1986 while their tally of nine goals in their first 10 games is their lowest since 1973, but van Nistelrooy says he “sees only good things”.

“The history of this club is incredible and it will always be a huge honour for me to have played a part in that as a player,” he said. “Now, however, I’m here as a coach looking towards the future. When I do that, I see only good things for Manchester United.

“I absolutely believe that this club has all the ingredients to get back to the levels I knew as a player, but it will take a lot of hard work and determination from everyone around the club to get there.”

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