United boosted by Ruud pledge

Ruud van Nistelrooy has dismissed speculation that he is set to leave Manchester United.

The Dutch striker was last week linked with a move to Barcelona following claims that his agent had talks with the Nou Camp board.

Rumours have also been rife that Real Madrid are planning a summer swoop but van Nistelrooy insists he is happy at Old Trafford.

He told the Sunday Mirror: “I thought long and hard about the implications of signing a new four-year contract at United and I have no regrets whatsoever.

“I have said so many times in the past that I would be happy to see out the best days of my career at this club and nothing has changed.

“So to suggest that I want to leave is ludicrous – I don’t know where these stories are coming from.

“I have no desire to go to Italy or Spain. I don’t care when I read in the newspaper that I am going to Real Madrid or Barcelona after this season. It’s all total rubbish.”