Ruud van Nistelrooy addressed the media ahead of Leicester City’s clash against Fulham on Saturday.
It was another disappointing night for supporters on Wednesday, as Leicester lost 2-0 against Crystal Palace, recording their sixth straight Premier League defeat.
Ruud van Nistelrooy claimed Leicester weren’t good enough against Oliver Glasner’s men and were punished for their poor defending.
Now, the Dutchman must figure out a way to galvanise his side and get them out of this rut, as the Foxes have made a habit out of losing recently.
Positive work in the transfer window would help, with Leicester confirming the signing of Woyo Coulibaly, who became their first signing this month.
It isn’t just his incoming that has dominated the deadlines, though, with Tom Cannon’s future up in the air.
Ruud van Nistelrooy hints at loaning out Tom Cannon
Cannon was recalled from his loan at Stoke City on Wednesday where he enjoyed a prolific spell, scoring 11 times in 25 appearances for the Potters.
The 22-year-old is now involved in a transfer tug of war, with Sunderland willing to pay £13m to sign Cannon, alongside fellow promotion chasers Sheffield United.
While no bid for the Republic of Ireland international has been lodged, it seemed as though Leicester were willing to let their striker depart, who only signed from Everton for £7.5 million in 2023.
However, when speaking about potential exits from Leicester this month, van Nistelrooy hinted at sending Cannon on loan instead of selling him.
“We’re looking at Tom Cannon’s situation very closely. What is best for him and for the club. There’s a possibility of loans being looked at, but other than that we want to keep the team together,” he said via Leicestershire Live.
The end part of the quote suggests van Nistelrooy perhaps doesn’t want any of his first-team stars leaving, on a day when Lazio have offered to sign Wout Faes on loan.
What van Nistelrooy should do with Tom Cannon
Van Nistelrooy would anger fans by selling the prolific centre-forward, as Leicester fans wanted Cannon to be recalled during his purple patch for Stoke.
There is an argument to be made that making a profit on the Irishman is a no-brainer, as it would supply the Dutchman with a bigger transfer kitty.
But Leicester have to think long-term. There is a huge possibility that they get relegated this season, and selling Cannon would shoot themselves in the foot.
He’s arguably the perfect striker to have in the Championship as he’s plundered 19 goals in 55 second-tier appearances.
Also, with Jamie Vardy’s form faltering, as seen during the defeat to Crystal Palace, Cannon could be a worthy long-term option – he just needs the opportunity to showcase his talent.
Failing that, a loan move to a side fighting promotion from the Championship could be the best move for both parties.