For however long it may last, the Ruud van Nistelrooy era begins under Old Trafford lights with a visit of Leicester for Manchester United in the EFL Cup.
The fixture represents the first outing following the departure of Erik ten Hag, with intense speculation surrounding the impending arrival of Ruben Amorim.
Historically, Van Nistelrooy has enjoyed profitable times against the Foxes, scoring four goals and earning three victories from as many meetings in the Premier League as a player.
With the Reds sitting in a disenchanting 14th in the domestic standings heading into November, another cup campaign appears likely, with the squad undoubtedly eager to progress past the last-16 encounter.
Ahead of the 138th meeting between the sides, the Theatre of Dreams requires a shot of footballing adrenaline, and like the days of old, the Stretford End will rely on their Dutch hero to deliver.
Team News
Having suffered a controversial late defeat against West Ham at the London Stadium, the one-time perennial juggernauts of England have tasted victory once in eight outings.
Bruno Fernandes returned for the trip to the capital and is available to lead the Van Nistelrooy midfield surge this evening.
Jonny Evans, Leny Yoro, Tyrell Malacia, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw were all unavailable, with the latter reportedly suffering a further setback in recovery from a prolonged calf injury.
Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount are expected to miss out, as is Brazilian winger Antony.
The visitors have had to contend with multiple issues on their return to the top tier, without Patson Daka, Hamza Choudhury, Jannik Vestegaard and Jakub Stolarczyk for much of it.
Steve Cooper confirmed that this evening’s game has likely come too soon for the eager quartet.
United are unbeaten in the side’s previous three meetings, winning two and drawing one.
Historically, this fixture supplies goals and has not returned a stalemate since a Premier League encounter in August 1997. The last three Old Trafford encounters ended with two or more, providing optimism for an entertaining evening.
How do you envisage Ruud van Nistelrooy and Manchester United getting on against Leicester at Old Trafford?
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