Ruud van Nistelrooy’s brilliant coaching move at full-time as Man United beat Fulham

Ruud van Nistelrooy displayed a brilliant coaching move after Manchester United won 1-0 against Fulham at Old Trafford in their Premier League opener.

The Reds dominated the game against the Cottagers and deserved the win after Joshua Zirkzee opened his United account late into the match.

Despite Erik ten Hag’s side creating numerous opportunities throughout the game, there were many wasted chances, as we’ve become accustomed to over the last year.

Alejandro Garnacho came off the bench alongside Zirkzee, but had a mixed half despite assisting the Dutchman’s winner.

The 20-year-old who scored United’s only goal in the Community Shield last weekend put in a delicious cross for Zirkzee to finish but missed an open goal in the last minutes of the game.

At full-time, it was clear that the Argentine was frustrated with himself, and it was noticed that new assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy went straight over to the player.

The United legend, who scored 150 goals for the club during his time as a player, looked to give Garnacho some words of advice and encouragement before he went down the tunnel.

Zirkzee’s contribution was key for the team and he will hopefully be able to help the club in terms of goalscoring throughout the season.

“To win and grab a goal… it couldn’t be better,” he told Sky after the game. “We got the win and that’s what the fans deserve.

“Manchester United is a huge club, and we need to strive for the best. That’s the plan…”

United’s next game comes away at Brighton next weekend, and they will then face Liverpool at Old Trafford before the next international break.

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