Ruud van Nistelrooy recalls the moment he was on opposite side with Alex Ferguson in one of the most notorious League Cup final bust-ups 18 years ago.
Van Nistelrooy, who scored 21 Premier League goals in the 2005/06 season, was snubbed for a spot in the starting XI or an appearance off the bench against the Latics.
The Dutchman was livid to have been passed over and even swore at his manager in what proved to be the beginning of “the end” for his United career.
Ferguson assistant, Carlos Queiroz, had to intervene as tensions threatened to boil over on the touchline.
The legendary Scot described the incident as “fractious” and admitted it was “the end” for Van Nistelrooy’s time in his squad.
Gary Neville provided more insight into the source of Van Nistelrooy’s fury by confirming Ferguson had promised his then-teammate he would feature in some capacity.
“I think one of the big catalysts for Ruud leaving was the League Cup final,”
“He didn’t start the game, but he said that the manager promised he was going to come on. But he didn’t come on.
“Ruud went nuts. He was going crazy on the bench, screaming, swearing at the manager. I think the manager was like ‘you know what… ooh, now’s the time [to sell him].'”