Van Nistelrooy admits football can be cruel

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Wednesday 30 October 2024 23:43

Ruud van Nistelrooy admitted football can be a cruel game sometimes after Manchester United enjoyed some luck in front of goal to comfortably see off Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup fourth round.

The Reds won 5-2 as Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes both bagged doubles and Alejandro Garnacho also found the net.

It was an enjoyable occasion at Old Trafford and van Nistelrooy clearly relished a night to remember but admitted clearer chances were created, and missed, during the latter part of Erik ten Hag’s reign.

Speaking to the official broadcasters, here are some of his comments…

SUPERB SUPPORT

“In the days leading up to this, it was with mixed feelings. Of course, I was sad to see Erik [ten Hag] go. He was the one that got me here. It was sad to see him leave but he’s leaving the club with two trophies and can have his head held high. Of course, matchday comes and 75,000 fans are here and they support the team. They supported me in an unbelievable way.”

UNITED WILL NEVER STOP

“As coaching staff, we prepared the players and I have to say they were fantastic today. Credit to the team, they pulled off a great performance today, after difficult moments. On the day it got announced, it was difficult for them and every one of us. Of course, when you have the manager is going, for us, as staff as well, so to react and play like this, it was a great achievement of the players. We promised to fight for the 75,000 fans and the millions at home watching and supporting United. For them, we wanted to show up, show this club is building and continuing to fight and never stop. That’s what it is about.”

BRUNO BREAKS SEASON DUCK IN STYLE

“You know, with his qualities, we knew he just needed some luck to get the goals going and then they will come with many. I’m delighted for him. He’s leading the team through many, many difficult phases and he’s fantastic to have around.”

A CRUEL GAME

“I have to say the chances we created against Fenerbahce and West Ham, also I remember at Crystal Palace, we created so many bigger, better chances than today. We had the luck with the post and the deflection. Sometimes, it’s what you need. It makes football a cruel game sometimes. As I said, we created much better and bigger chances in past games than today so, hopefully, the luck has turned today and we can build on this victory.”

ENJOYING THE GOALS

“We scored some great goals. The first one was an absolute beauty from Casemiro. I just enjoyed the moment, as it was in the top corner, and an amazing goal. He’s an amazing person and player and it’s fantastic to have him around. Garnacho’s was a very good finish, from Diogo Dalot’s cross. I think the crowd goes home after a nice night of football.”

THE FUTURE?

“I came here as an assistant, to help the club, and now in this role, I’m helping as long as I’m needed. In the future, in any capacity, I am here to help the club further, to build towards the future. There are so many people around me who want the best for the club and that will never change. I think it’s important to focus on Sunday, and the league game against Chelsea. What the future holds, let’s wait on that.”

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Wednesday 30 October 2024 23:43