manchester united

Manchester United interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy told Sky Sports: “It’s mixed feelings. It’s sad to see Erik go. He was the one who brought me here. Our first conversation was about his passion for Man Utd. He did everything for this club.

“They ask me to help the club. That’s the reason I’m here, to help, to build. That’s where I feel proud to lead the team today.

“A hectic day, especially yesterday. I came in for the first time after Erik left. We have to stabilize ourselves, go out to train and get to work. The team conversation was about the rival and about ourselves, about what awaits us in Old Trafford. In front of these wonderful fans.

“Hopefully there will be a lot of possession and attacks. That’s what Man Utd is about. I’ve tried to share that with the players.”

On the team he chose: “It has to do with the squad we have. We are thin at the moment. We have injury problems.”

“The most important thing is the passion and the energy, getting the crowd going and giving them a great night of football. It’s a great day.”