The allure of a Super Sunday meeting between Manchester United and Chelsea supplies an unmissable weekend feature, with Ruud van Nistelrooy braced for his second tilt in the hot seat.
While the United faithful have endured the most underwhelming of starts, inevitably leading to the departure of Erik ten Hag, a Carabao Cup mauling of Leicester has supplied a semblance of optimism.
Six points stand between the Premier League sides, with Cole Palmer dictating much of the positivity within Enzo Maresca’s equally erratic outfit.
For Van Nistelrooy, an opportunity to lead his former team means the world, with many of his ex-colleagues keen to congratulate and recognise his achievements before Wednesday’s fixture.
“I spoke shortly with Sir Alex,” the interim chief told MUTV. “He wished me luck before the game.
“You know, Ole sent me a text to wish me luck. [There was] many former players that reached out and just sent me a text – ‘all the best’, and it was great to receive all these messages.”
With the Blues firmly within his sights, two further outings against PAOK and a second meeting with the Foxes offer the Dutchman further opportunities to enhance his CV before the arrival of Ruben Amorim.
Despite the doom and gloom surrounding the one-time perennial giants, a win could move the Reds to within four points of Arsenal in the final Champions League place.
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The Reds look to have a similar availability to their midweek cup outing, with at least seven first-team names unavailable.
Christian Eriksen’s status is unknown, with the Dane enjoying some impressive form throughout the campaign. Ruud is eager to welcome him back to selection.
“Not many changes,” he told media ahead of the fixture.
“We’re still hoping and working hard to get Christian Eriksen part of the squad. He’s working hard to make it in the last moment.
“And other than that, there’s no news on players that will be available, any other than [Wednesday].”
Kobbie Mainoo, Antony, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro remain sidelined.
Chelsea were without the services of Jadon Sancho during the week due to illness and will be unable to consider him because of ineligibility against his parent club.
History bodes well for United’s interim chief as United are unbeaten in 11 home league fixtures against Chelsea, aiming to win three on the trot for the first time in 67 years.
However, this remains the most drawn fixture in Premier League history, with 26 of the previous 64 outings finishing level between the rivals.
How do you see the latest installation between Manchester United and Chelsea playing out, and will Ruud make it two wins from two?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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