Ruud: What Sir Alex told me

The Dutchman, who scored 150 United goals in his five years as a player, stepped up into the role after Erik ten Hag’s departure on Monday. Van Nistelrooy had joined Ten Hag’s team this summer, eager to help move the club forward and compete for major titles.

Serving as interim for the short term while a permanent manager is appointed, van Nistelrooy’s first game saw United score five goals in an entertaining Carabao Cup fixture at Old Trafford.

Doubles from captain Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, plus a sixth goal of the season from Alejandro Garnacho, saw the Reds progress into the quarter-finals.

Van Nistelrooy revealed to journalists in Thursday’s press conference, previewing this weekend’s Premier League game against Chelsea, that he and Sir Alex had spoken before the match.

"Yes, I spoke to him,” he said.

“He wished me luck. We spoke shortly about my situation, shortly about the team and most of all he wished me luck for the game. It's always great to speak to him.”

Ruud’s connection with United’s fans, as well as his former boss and teammates, has always been a bit special, and he used that link as part of his first team talk as interim head coach.

“My team talk, I'm standing in front of the team telling them about what Manchester United is about and what it is to play at Old Trafford,” he revealed.

“Telling them what songs are being sung by the fans and why. So, you try to transmit that feeling, that lovely feeling playing for this club.

“It's a proud moment sharing that with players, and what they were transmitting on the pitch, and the way it interacted with the supporters.

“Also towards me, it was unbelievable support and it only strengthens me to do the utmost, especially short term, for Chelsea.”