Van Nistelrooy back in training

Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has begun his countdown to a comeback after starting just one of the last six matches.

The Dutchman, who has a hamstring injury, stayed behind as his team-mates flew to Cyprus to prepare for tomorrow’s Champions League game against Maccabi Haifa.

Alex Ferguson said: “Ruud starts training today and hopefully will be ready for the Southampton game on Saturday.

“His is a typical hamstring injury where it is tight and if you don’t correct it, then it will just keep coming back. What we have done is the right thing. Get it sorted out. Get the proper remedial work done. When he comes back he will hopefully stay back.”