'Not only the captain's armband' - Van Nistelrooy showers praise on Ndidi after display against Man Utd

Leicester City manager Ruud van Nistelrooy showered praise on Wilfred Ndidi after his commanding display during the 2-1 loss to Manchester United in an Emirates FA Cup clash at Old Trafford on Friday night.

Given he had been inactive for approximately two months, the Nigeria international was a surprising inclusion in the starting lineup to face the Red Devils. 

Making his first appearance for the Foxes since December 8, 2024, Ndidi put in a solid 58-minute shift before making way for Harry Winks.

The highlight of his performance was the role he played in the opening goal of the contest with halftime approaching.

With four minutes left in the first half, Leicester City deservedly took the lead when Bobby De Cordova-Reid headed in the rebound after Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana saved Ndidi's effort with his feet.

Ndidi was handed captaincy duties with Jamie Vardy unavailable for selection due to a slight injury.

Assessing the performance of the number 6, Ruud van Nistelrooy praised Ndidi’s leadership, influence and partnership with Boubakary Soumaré, highlighting his excellence on and off the ball.

In quotes relayed by Leicestershire Live, he said: "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. 

"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 Foxes crashed out of the FA Cup after Harry Maguire netted a controversial equalizer in stoppage time.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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