Ruud van Nistelrooy has allayed fears that he will be sacked by Leicester just 56 days into his reign.

The Dutch manager, who replaced Steve Cooper in December, has overseen a run of seven successive Premier League defeats. A second defeat against Tottenham on Sunday would equal the club’s record set in 2001.

“I’m focused on getting this team out of the situation, that’s my concern,” Van Nistelrooy said when asked if he was worried about his job.

“I am with the players, and working with everyone at Leicester to get the best out of this team in difficult times. In difficult times, you need to be strong, show character, work and be persistent and committed.

“We are united and committed. That’s the spirit and you can see it on the pitch. I can see a team with spirit and fight. If we continue this run will be over.

Leicester are 19th, two points adrift of safety after losing 2-0 to Fulham last Saturday.

“We know where we are in the league but for the rest of the games it’s about getting out of this situation,” added the former Manchester United striker.

“Sunday is a new game where we can start fighting to get out of this period. This is when you need character, unity and unity. We are that.”

Patience is not for sale

Van Nistelrooy said midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is not for sale after speculation linking him with a move to Monaco this month.

“No, of course not,” he replied when asked if Ndidi, who is close to returning from a hamstring injury, could depart.

“Wilfred is a key player and person in the team and at the club and I’m glad he’s almost there to help the team again.

“We know how much we miss him and we know we need him. Wilf is key in the coming months, a key part of this team that can get us out of this situation.

Leicester transfer news

A deal has been agreed with Sheffield United for the permanent transfer of Tom Cannon 📰

— Leicester City (@LCFC) January 23, 2025

Van Nistelrooy said the £10million sale of striker Tom Cannon to Sheffield United would affect his January business, but admitted he was unsure whether the Foxes would make any new arrivals before the deadline.

He said: “The situation in the final week is clear, we are looking at options to strengthen the squad.

“This deal with Tom is part of that situation and looking at the players to strengthen the squad in terms of possibilities.

“No (the club’s commitment has not changed), we are still there. Of course things change when players like Tom leave. We are still in that process.

“(The first few weeks of the window) are not wasted because we are focusing on the players we need to improve the team and get the team out of this situation. New players are a bonus.

“We have the right-backs that we needed. We will see if we can strengthen, but if not, we will work with what we have.

“It is a work in progress. We are trying to do what is possible within the possibilities. There is no news about anything at the moment. “