Gary Lineker shares what he's heard 'behind the scenes' about Ruud van Nistelrooy becoming Leicester manager

Gary Lineker has shared a bit of inside information regarding Ruud van Nistelrooy's appointment as Leicester City boss.

The Foxes sacked Steve Cooper after just five months in charge at the King Power Stadium, winning just two games out of 12 in the Premier League.

On Friday evening Leicester confirmed Van Nistelrooy as Cooper's replacement, signing a deal until June 2027. The Dutchman became available after it was decided he would not be staying on Ruben Amorim's backroom staff at Manchester United following a spell as interim boss.

After Erik ten Hag was relieved of his duties, Van Nistelrooy took charge of United on four occasions, winning three and drawing one. Two of those victories came against his Leicester, with one in the Premier League and another in the Carabao Cup.

Graham Potter and David Moyes were both linked with the Leicester job and according to former player and staunch supporter Lineker, Van Nistelrooy was not the club's first choice.

Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, Lineker said: "Whoever you go for it’s a gamble. I understand, I’m informed behind the scenes that one or two managers turned it down.

"But it’s an opportunity for Ruud. It’s a big name to come to Leicester City and I hope it works out."

Ruud van Nistelrooy is watching Leicester's trip to Brentford. Image: Getty

Van Nistelrooy officially takes charge of Leicester on Sunday, meaning first-team coach Ben Dawson will oversee the trip to Brentford. The former PSV manager is in attendance though and will watch from the stands ahead of working with the players on the training ground.

"It is my pleasure to welcome Ruud to Leicester City," chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha said on Van Nistelrooy's appointment.

He joins a Club with a rich history, passionate supporters, and a talented squad, and we are all excited to see the impact he can have as we embark on this new chapter together.

"Ruud’s experience, knowledge, and winning mentality will undoubtedly bring great value to us, and we look forward to supporting him in achieving success for our fans and our Club."

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