Gary Lineker has suggested that Ruud van Nistelrooy was not Leicester City’s first choice to replace Steve Cooper as manager. The Foxes confirmed on Friday evening that the former Manchester United caretaker boss had been appointed to take charge at the King Power Stadium.

Van Nistelrooy is set for a swift return to Premier League action after leaving United earlier in the month.

Leicester had been linked with several candidates, including Van Nistelrooy, following their split with Cooper the previous weekend. However, Lineker, a former Leicester star and a lifelong supporter of his hometown club, hinted on The Rest is Football podcast that there were other candidates who were preferred by the club.

He said: "Whoever you go for, it's a gamble. I'm informed behind the scenes that one or two managers turned it down. But it’s an opportunity for Ruud. It’s a big name to come to Leicester City, and I hope it works out."

Before Cooper took the job, Graham Potter was reportedly considered, and David Moyes, who is available after leaving West Ham last summer, was also linked, according to The Mirror.

Ben Dawson, the club's first-team coach, will oversee Leicester’s match with Brentford on Saturday (3pm), with Van Nistelrooy officially starting his role on Sunday. The Foxes are eager to bounce back from their 2-1 defeat to Chelsea last weekend.

Van Nistelrooy will be in attendance for Saturday’s match after flying in to take up his new position, having notably secured two victories against Leicester during his short tenure at United.

Leicester City’s chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, expressed his enthusiasm about the new appointment, saying: "It is my pleasure to welcome Ruud to Leicester City. He joins a club with a rich history, passionate supporters, and a talented squad, and we are all excited to see the impact he can have as we embark on this new chapter together."

"Ruud's experience, knowledge, and winning mentality will undoubtedly bring great value to us, and we look forward to supporting him in achieving success for our fans and our club."