Leicester City manager Ruud van Nistelrooy was full of praise for Wilfred Ndidi following the midfielder’s impressive display in their 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in the FA Cup at Old Trafford on Friday.
Making his first appearance for the Foxes after an eight-week injury layoff, the Super Eagles midfielder marked his return as captain with an influential performance.
He played a key role in Leicester’s opening goal, creating space in the box for a shot that was blocked, allowing Bobby De Cordova-Reid to capitalise on the rebound and head home.
Despite the defeat, the Dutch manager was effusive in his praise for Ndidi, commending his impactful performance in his first game after a two-month absence.
Van Nistelrooy hails Ndidi’s leadership and influence on return
In his pre-match conference, as shared by Leicester Mercury, Van Nistelrooy hailed Ndidi, highlighting his leadership and overall influence on the team despite the defeat.
“You’ve seen the game, the way he played, the way he lifted the team, on the ball, off the ball. His performance was excellent, but also his leadership,” Van Nistelrooy said.
“Not only the captain’s armband he wore, the way he led the team, the way he demanded from his surroundings, coaching, talking, preventing situations from occurring. I thought Bouba and Wilf had a great partnership today on the ball but also off the ball to control the game.”
The 28-year-old delivered a solid performance on Friday, completing 35 of his 43 passes with an 81% accuracy rate and registering 52 touches.
He won both aerial duels, made a clearance, a blocked shot, and an interception. He also had two shots, one on target, and completed one of two long-ball attempts before being substituted for Harry Winks in the 58th minute.
