Ruud van Nistelrooy explains surprise decision that should be a reminder to Leicester City squad
Bobby De Cordova-Reid was rewarded by Ruud van Nistelrooy with a rare Leicester City start for the commitment he’s shown in training and the “vital” attributes he has as a person.
A surprise selection for the victory over Tottenham, De Cordova-Reid replaced Stephy Mavididi on the left wing in North London. Not only was it the Jamaican’s first City start under van Nistelrooy, but the first time he’d been in a Premier League 11 since the second weekend of the season.
It was not a popular selection, with fans wanting to see Facundo Buonanotte and Stephy Mavididi on the flanks. But by full-time, van Nistelrooy’s decision was justified, De Cordova-Reid setting up both goals.
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The manager’s explanation over his inclusion is an important one for the rest of the squad to understand. The 31-year-old has shown a desire to improve every day in training, keeping standards high at Seagrave.
“The character that he is in our team and the importance of the leadership and experience that he gives to the team and the club, has always been vital in the whole period we’ve been working together,” van Nistelrooy said.
“Every day, he’s at it. He’s training, he wants to improve every day, and I saw that. For me, it was an important moment to put him in the team and reward that attitude.
“I felt that he was ready to help the team, play and lead. He did, in a fantastic way. Not only the two assists but also the way he was defending and helping the team get into the best positions we could.”
Having also set up one and scored the other during City’s draw with Brighton last month, it means only Jamie Vardy has been involved in more league goals than De Cordova-Reid since van Nistelrooy took charge.
