Leicester City coach, Ruud van Nistelrooy, has firmly ruled out any possibility of Wilfred Ndidi leaving the club this month, despite reports linking the Nigerian midfielder with a move to French side AS Monaco.
Speaking to the media on Friday ahead of Leicester City’s clash away at Tottenham, Van Nistelrooy expressed his confidence in the crucial role Ndidi plays for Leicester, especially as the player nears a return from a hamstring injury.
“No, of course not,” said the Dutch manager when questioned about potential interest from Monaco.
“Wilfred is a key player and person in the squad and in the club, and I’m glad he is nearly there to help the team again.”
Ndidi, who recently signed a new three-year contract with Leicester – with the option of an additional year – has been a standout performer for the club.
“His tireless work in midfield was instrumental in the team’s successful promotion back to the Premier League last season.
Van Nistelrooy said the importance of Ndidi’s presence, particularly as Leicester faces critical challenges in the coming months.
“We know how much we’ve missed him, and we know we need him.
“Wilfred is key in the coming months, a key part of this team that can get us out of this situation,” Nistelrooy said.
Leicester fans will no doubt be relieved to hear that their defensive midfield anchor will remain with the team as they aim to secure their Premier League status and move away from the relegation zone.
With Ndidi’s return imminent to the Foxes’ starting lineup, Van Nistelrooy is hopeful that the Nigeria international’s influence will be pivotal in Leicester’s bid for survival and success in the second half of the season.
Ndidi who has been out of action for over a month has made 15 appearances in the Premier League and has been cautioned four times.
