Topics: Ruben Amorim, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Manchester United, Premier League
In his latest post-match press conference, Ruben Amorim credited predecessor Ruud van Nistelrooy for helping improve one of his top performers.
Amorim claimed his first Premier League win as Manchester United head coach on Sunday afternoon as they sealed a comfortable 4-0 victory over Everton thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford [2] and Joshua Zirkzee [2].
United were never able to win a Premier League game by four goals during Erik ten Hag's two-year reign but Amorim has managed to get the best out of his forward players in recent days, scoring seven goals in two games.
For many, the standout player since his appointment has been Amad Diallo, who provided two assists against Sean Dyche's side.
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After being deployed at right-wing-back in their 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town last month, the in-form Diallo earned plaudits from his new manager.
"I think it was very good, he [Amad] has improved a lot," said Amorim. "Since these three days, he improved so much defensively. He was so focused on everything, I think he did a great job."
Now, the Portuguese coach has praised Diallo further but instead of taking all the credit, he pointed in the direction of former interim manager Van Nistelrooy, who recently took the job at Leicester City.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Amorim said: "He is really big in talent, but small in size. He did a great job but he is also has to improve."
The 39-year-old continued: "‘He was really good again. Ruud van Nistelrooy helped him a lot in his games in charge and now he’s helping me. He’s in a great moment, but that moment started with Ruud. So I just take advantage of Ruud’s work with Amad."
Amorim wasn't done there. "He was really good defending and really good attacking so he has to continue to play like that," he added. "You could feel it in the end of the game he was really, really tired so we have to manage that and increase his physical ability.
"I’d like to take credit for it [Amad’s pressing], but that’s him. He’s like that. He’s smart. He’s explosive."
Van Nistelrooy, who joined United's coaching staff in the summer alongside fellow assistant Rene Hake, was ushered into the hot seat when Erik ten Hag was sacked last month.
He took charge of four matches across all competitions and stayed unbeaten with three wins and a draw. Despite his success, Amorim decided against handing the Dutchman a place in his backroom staff.
