Ruud van Nistelrooy claim denied by Man Utd star before he then discusses coach’s job

Rasmus Hojlund ended up providing his take on Ruud van Nistelrooy’s coaching at Manchester United amid reports he could step in for Erik ten Hag should the manager be dismissed. Van Nistelrooy, the former PSV Eindhoven boss, has been suggested as a possible interim boss ever since he rejoined the Red Devils this summer as part of countryman Ten Hag’s revamped coaching staff.

Despite tense moments once again on Saturday, Ten Hag’s position remains secure for the moment, buoyed by 21-year-old Hojlund netting his first goal of the Premier League campaign, ensuring United’s narrow 2-1 triumph against Brentford. It marked their first league win since September.

Thomas Frank’s Brentford had edged in front just before the interval thanks to Ethan Pinnock’s thunderous header, only for Alejandro Garnacho to restore parity shortly after the break. Hojlund’s silky lob over Mats Flekken not only clinched the spoils for his club but also invited parallels with Van Nistelrooy’s predatory instincts following his cool strike.

Yet, the young Dane was swift to downplay likenesses with the legendary forward, before then commenting on Van Nistelrooy’s mentoring prowess. Danish marksman Hojlund said: “A Van Nistelrooy finish? I don’t want to be compared to him.

He added (via the Mirror): “If you want to talk about him, he is a role model for us. I can develop a lot alongside him.”

Hojlund, who topped the goalscoring charts in his first season at Manchester with a haul of 16 goals, heaped accolades on the Old Trafford legend. “Working very close with Ruud van Nistelrooy is a big step for me,” Hojlund professed. “He is doing a great job. I’m trying to bring everything I can every time I step on the pitch, especially here at Old Trafford.”

His acknowledgment of Van Nistelrooy comes off the back of The Daily Star’s report that the Dutch icon would be a fan favourite for the managerial spot should Ten Hag depart. Should Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos opt to wield the axe, it’s suggested United players would advocate for the former PSV head coach to take over, even if only as an interim manager.

Van Nistelrooy, 48, continues to command respect among players and supporters alike at United, with the one-time Premier League champion reportedly not averse to stepping in if Ten Hag finds himself sacked.

Thomas Tuchel – who was a potential candidate to replace Ten Hag this past summer – is off the table, as The FA have secured the German as England’s new head coach. Another potential candidate in the form of recently departed Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate has expressed his desire for a prolonged hiatus from management.

Brentford boss Frank, who could have been seen as auditioning for the role on Saturday at Old Trafford, was unfortunate not to come away with a point.