Leicester City Manager Ruud van Nistelrooy Discusses Squad Fitness, Ollie Skipp, and Team Performance Ahead of Newcastle Match

Ruud van Nistelrooy, the manager of Leicester City, addressed reporters in advance of the Premier League fixture against Newcastle United scheduled for Saturday, with a kick-off time of 15:00 GMT. The following are the principal points from his press conference: Van Nistelrooy stated that Wilfred Ndidi would be unavailable for Saturday’s match due to a hamstring injury. He also indicated that Harry Winks is “doubtful” for the game, having only recently resumed partial team training. Regarding the contribution of midfielder Ollie Skipp, Van Nistelrooy remarked: “[He’s] a very good age. He’s a young talented player with a bit of experience already. A very good team player who helped the team against Brighton. He’s very dynamic, good on the ball and can track back. He’s a very good person to have around because we have injuries and suspensions so he’s happy to fill in.” Addressing the four points secured from his initial two games at the helm, he commented: “It’s been great to use the first two games to look at what we’re trying to achieve. We took that into training to further develop, how we attack and progress up the pitch and we’ve had a good week. Tomorrow we still have training to work on more things.” Concerning the team’s morale prior to their trip to Newcastle, Van Nistelrooy stated: “The progress over the past two games – the results, the confidence – I want to take that into this game. In the end, the progress of the individual and the team will give you the most chance of winning points.” When discussing the upcoming match against Newcastle, he noted: “We look at the individual qualities they have and the potential they can have. We have to prepare for that. It’s a great squad with good options from the bench. We’ll have to be spot on to get a result on Saturday.” Regarding potential transfer activity in January, Van Nistelrooy explained: “It’s a continuous process. I like how organised the club is in preparing different opportunities, but you can’t start thinking about them. I’m first of all looking at our current squad and in the under-21s, [seeing] who’s available and assessing them like Henry Cartwright.”