Ruud van Nistelrooy has played down fears he could be sacked by Leicester just 56 days into his term.
The Dutch coach, who replaced Steve Cooper in December, has endured a run of seven straight defeats in the Premier League. Another defeat against 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 am alongside the players and working with everyone at Leicester to get the best out of this team, even in difficult times. In difficult times you must be strong, show character, work hard, be persistent and commit.
“We are united and committed. That’s the spirit and you can see it on the pitch. I see a team with spirit and fight. If we keep going, this run will end.”
After the 2-0 defeat against Fulham last Saturday, Leicester are two points behind in 19th place.
“We know where we are in the league but the remaining games are about getting out of this situation,” the former Manchester United striker added.
“Sunday is a new game in which we can fight to get out of this phase. Then you need character, togetherness and unity. This is us.”
Patience cannot be bought
Van Nistelrooy said midfielder Wilfried Ndidi was not for sale this month after speculation swirled about a move to Monaco.
“No, of course not,” he replied when asked whether Ndidi, who is close to returning after a thigh injury, could go.
“Wilfred is a key player and a key person in the squad and the club and I am happy that he will be back soon to help the team.
“We know how much we missed him and we know we need him. Wilf is crucial in the coming months, an important part of this team who 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 impact business in January, but admitted he is not sure whether the Foxes will have any new signings before the deadline.
He said: “The situation for the last week is clear, we are looking at options to strengthen the squad.”
“This deal with Tom is part of that situation and looks for players who will strengthen the team as much as possible.”
“No (the club’s commitment hasn’t changed), we’re still here. Of course, things change when players like Tom leave. We are still in this process.
“(The first few weeks of the window) have not been wasted because we are focusing our attention on the players we need to improve the team and get us out of this situation. “New players are a bonus.
“We have a right-back that we needed. We’ll see if we can step up, but if not we’ll work with what we have.
“It’s still a work in progress. We try to do what is possible within the scope of possibilities. There is no news on anything at the moment.”
