Van Nistelrooy vows to help United in any role

LONDON - Manchester United caretaker manager Ruud van Nistelrooy said he will help the club "in any capacity" as reports suggest that Ruben Amorim is getting closer to being named as Erik ten Hag's successor.

- REUTERS, AFP

A United star as a player, van Nistelrooy enjoyed a winning start as interim boss with his team trouncing Leicester City 5-2 on Oct 30 to book a League Cup quarter-final meeting with Tottenham Hotspur.

The former Netherlands striker's first match in charge was memorable, with captain Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro scoring two goals apiece, including a brilliant long-range strike from the Brazilian that had van Nistelrooy vigorously pumping his fists in celebration.

While the Old Trafford crowd sang van Nistelrooy's name after the final whistle, he said it was sad to see compatriot ten Hag getting the sack two days earlier.

Sporting Lisbon coach Amorim was expected to be confirmed as United's new manager imminently, reports said.

The Athletic said the 39-year-old would stay with the Portuguese league leaders for their next three games, including next week's Champions League match against Manchester City.

He is expected to take charge at Old Trafford during the November international break, with his first game set to be United's away trip to Ipswich Town on Nov 24.