“Pundit Criticizes Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Chances of Success at Leicester City”
"Leicester City Poised to Swap Experienced Survival Expert for Managerial Novice"
Paul Merson has dismissed Ruud van Nistelrooy’s chances of rescuing Leicester City even before his appointment as manager is confirmed.
The former Arsenal and Aston Villa player shared his thoughts on reports that the Foxes are set to name the Manchester United legend as Steve Cooper’s successor.
Cooper was sacked following Leicester’s home defeat to Chelsea, which left the club just one point above the Premier League relegation zone.
Leicester appear to have chosen van Nistelrooy, who won three out of four matches as United’s interim manager, to steer them away from danger. However, Merson is skeptical.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, he said: “He had three games and beat Leicester twice, so it’s not a bad audition, is it? They probably think he was the one who beat them, not Manchester United.
“It will be interesting. Let’s be honest, if he hadn’t had that stint at Man United, he wouldn’t be getting this job.
Hopefully, he takes advantage of the opportunity. Good luck to him—he was a top player, and hopefully, he can turn Leicester around.”
Despite his well-wishes, Merson is unconvinced about Leicester’s survival chances. “Do I think Leicester can turn it around? No, I don’t think they can.
I’ve watched them too many times this season, and I don’t see them staying up,”he added.
