Ruud van Nistelrooy highlights Leicester City player who deserves ‘more game time’ amid Steve Cooper change.
Leicester City stay unbeaten under new manager after late brace earns draw with Brighton.
Troy Deeney praised Ruud van Nistelrooy for the decisive triple substitution that turned the tide in Leicester City’s 2-2 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion, asserting that the team no longer resembles Premier League newcomers.
Van Nistelrooy, managing City for only the second time, followed up a victory over struggling West Ham by guiding his side to an impressive comeback from 2-0 down, earning a valuable point against the Seagulls.
The turning point came after halftime when van Nistelrooy made bold changes.
Seven minutes into the second half, Oliver Skipp replaced Wilfred Ndidi, followed by Stephy Mavididi and Bobby De Cordova-Reid coming on for Kasey McAteer and Jordan Ayew just past the hour mark.
Although Brighton doubled their lead soon after, the momentum shifted, with goals from Jamie Vardy and De Cordova-Reid securing the draw and extending van Nistelrooy’s unbeaten start.
City now sit five points above the relegation zone, boosting hopes of avoiding an immediate return to the Championship.
Speaking on Match of the Day 2, Deeney commended van Nistelrooy’s tactical adjustments and the squad’s determination.
“Absolutely, he was brave. It’s easier to take risks when you’re chasing the game, but those substitutions made the difference,” Deeney said.
“Oliver Skipp added more tenacity in midfield, Bobby brought his usual quality, and Mavididi, a player I really like, provided a directness that’s been missing. I think he deserves more game time.
“And Jamie Vardy, even at his age, proved he still has the quality. When these players came on, they pressed, harried, and made it uncomfortable for Brighton.
They brought clarity and energy to the team, which reflects the manager’s influence.”
Deeney noted that Leicester no longer appear like a newly-promoted side.
“They look like a team with a clear identity. This is the ‘new manager bounce,’ and there will be ups and downs, but with van Nistelrooy in charge, I believe they have a stronger chance of staying in the Premier League.”
