Ruud van Nistelrooy is appointed Leicester City manager on a two-and-a-half year deal

Ruud van Nistelrooy is back in the Premier League after being named as Leicester City’s new manager, succeeding Steve Cooper.

The Manchester United legend had been at his former club this season as Erik ten Hag’s assistant up until the latter’s dismissal last month.

Following Ten Hag’s departure, Van Nistelrooy was named as the Red Devils interim manager until Ruben Amorim took charge – but left after his arrival.

Van Nistelrooy replaces Cooper as Leicester boss – who was sacked last weekend after just 12 Premier League matches in charge of the Foxes.

The 48-year-old has signed a contract until June 2027 at the King Power Stadium.

Van Nistelrooy ‘excited to start’ at Leicester City

‘I’m proud, I’m excited,’ Van Nistelrooy, 48, said.

‘Everybody that I speak to about Leicester City is enthusiastic. They have great stories about the quality of the people working at the club, the supporters and, of course, the recent history of the club is impressive.

‘I’m excited to start and to get to know everyone and give everything I can for the football club.’

Leicester sit 16th in the Premier League, one point above the relegation zone.

First-team coach Ben Dawson will take charge of the side for Saturday’s clash at Brentford before Van Nistelrooy leads the Foxes for the first time against West Ham at home on December 3.

Van Nistelrooy oversaw three wins and one draw during his four-game stint in charge at United, with two of the victories coming against Leicester in the Premier League and Carabao Cup.