Ruud van Nistelrooy has played down fears he could be sacked by Leicester just 56 days into his reign.
The Dutch manager, who replaced Steve Cooper in December, has overseen a run of seven straight defeats in the Premier League. Another loss to Tottenham on Sunday would equal a club record set in 2001.
“I’m focused on getting this team out of the situation, that’s my only concern,” Van Nistelrooy said when asked if he was worried about his job.
“I’m with the players, working with everyone at Leicester to get the best out of this squad, and in difficult times. In tough times, you need to be strong, show character, work and persist and be committed.
“We are united and committed. That is the spirit and you can see that on the pitch. I can see a team with spirit and fight. If we continue this run will end.”
Leicester sit 19th, two points from safety, after last Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Fulham.
“We know where we are in the league but for the remaining games it’s about getting out of this situation” the former Manchester United striker added.
“Sunday is a new game where we can start fighting to get out of this period. This is when you need character, togetherness and unity. We are that.”
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Ndidi not for sale
Van Nistelrooy said midfielder Wilfried Ndidi is not for sale this month after speculation linking him with a move to Monaco.
“No, of course not,” he replied when asked if Ndidi, who is close to a return from a hamstring injury, could depart.
“Wilfred is a key player and person in the squad and in the club and I’m glad he is nearly there to help the team again.
“We know how much we’ve missed him and we know we need him. Wilf is key in the coming months, a key part of this team that can get us out of this situation.”
Leicester transfer news
A deal has been agreed with Sheffield United for the permanent transfer of Tom Cannon 📰
— Leicester City (@LCFC) January 23, 2025
Van Nistelrooy said the £10million sale of striker Tom Cannon to Sheffield United will make an impact on their January business, but admitted he is not certain if the Foxes will have any new arrivals before the deadline.
He said: “It’s clear the situation for the final week, we are looking at options to strengthen the squad.
“This deal with Tom is part of that situation and looking at players to strengthen the team within the possibilities.
“No [the club’s commitment hasn’t changed], we’re still there. Of course things change when players like Tom leave. We’re still in that process.
“[The first few weeks of the window] have not been wasted because we’re putting our attention in the players we have to get the team improving and get the team out of this situation. New players are a bonus.
“We have a right-back that we needed. We’ll see if we can strengthen, but if not, we’ll work with what we have.
“It’s a work in progress. We’re trying to do what is possible within the possibilities. At this moment there is no news on anything.”
