Manchester United’s interim manager has a chance to impress new regime before he steps back or exits the club

Ruud van Nistelrooy is once again the focal point at Manchester United, almost two decades after ending a five-year spell leading the line. The boots were hung up long ago and he has swapped the famous red shirt for a tunic and long coat but it is like the old days as the Old Trafford fans elongate his first name.

“Ruuuuuuuud” was the chant when he left the tunnel to take charge of his first match, leading United to a much-needed 5-2 Carabao Cup victory over Leicester. Van Nistelrooy’s side laid down a marker but with Chelsea’s visit on Sunday and a first Europa League win of the season required against Paok four days later, the Dutchman knows this is not a busman’s holiday even for someone who has maintained his hero status despite an acrimonious exit in 2006.