Gary Lineker aims thinly veiled dig at Erik ten Hag with Ruud van Nistelrooy claim
Erik ten Hag was sacked by Manchester United on Monday after a poor start to the season, with Ruud van Nistelrooy taking interim charge ahead of their Carabao Cup clash with Leicester
by Abbie Meehan · The MirrorGary Lineker has cheekily asked why Manchester United's hierarchy didn't delay Erik ten Hag's sacking until later in the week – to give his beloved Leicester City a better shot at victory in their Carabao Cup tie.
United handed the Dutchman his marching orders on Monday, following their last-gasp defeat to West Ham on Sunday. The Red Devils are currently sitting in 14th place in the Premier League table, with a mere three victories from nine games this season.
After Matthjis de Ligt gave away a contentious late penalty against the Hammers, allowing them to clinch a 2-1 win, and it sealed Ten Hag's fate. United's announcement on Monday was straightforward and blunt, confirming his departure after just over two years in charge.
The statement read: "Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men's first-team manager. Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.
"We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future. Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited."
During a live episode of The Rest is Football podcast on Monday, former Leicester forward Lineker couldn't resist playfully poking fun at Ten Hag's departure. The 63-year-old said: "It'll be interesting to see now. I mean obviously with these things, there's a bit of a reaction immediately isn't there? The team looks re-energised when a manager goes, and [new interim boss] Ruud van Nistelrooy will come in.
"We're not very happy as Leicester fans, because we've got Man United away in the Carabao Cup, I think it's Wednesday night. They'll have a new guy in charge, everybody will be buzzing, I can see it now. So, I mean, couldn't they have waited until Thursday?!"
His take was met with laughter from his co-stars, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, as the latter asked: "You fancy yourself against Man United, you cheeky sod?"
Lineker replied with a smile: "I would've done before this... but now, not so much!"
Leicester will take on United at Old Trafford on Wednesday, in Van Nistelrooy's inaugural match as interim manager. A place in the quarter finals is up for grabs, and United fans will be hoping that positivity will return to Old Trafford by the 7:45pm kick-off.
The jury is still out on whether Lineker's confidence in his old team is well-placed or if the Red Devils will harness the 'new manager bounce' to their advantage. However, one thing is certain - United supporters are itching for an upturn in their fortunes.
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