Sir Alex Ferguson has reassured Ruud van Nistelrooy he still has a part to play at Manchester United after he was again benched against West Brom.
After making a mad dash to the Midlands on his return to England following a family bereavement, the nearest van Nistelrooy came to getting involved in the action at The Hawthorns was a rant at the referee after a dubious decision had gone against the visitors.
United have broken their silence on van Nistelrooy's status within the Red Devils squad with first assistant manager Carlos Queiroz, then Ferguson himself insisting the Dutchman remains a long-term part of their plans.
Yet van Nistelrooy himself remains silent, unwilling at this stage, to reiterate his love of all things United and happiness in the Manchester area.
The 29-year-old's wish not to talk publicly on his omission is understandable but it leaves a void for speculation and rumour to fill. And yet the story has already moved on from the sensation of van Nistelrooy's axing to exactly when he will be back.
Not this week, as more pressing concerns at home rendered talk of a return meaningless, but not next week against Birmingham either if form is any guide because Louis Saha is presently undroppable.
Saha's well-taken double secured a fifth straight win for Ferguson's men and took the Frenchman's tally for a season which only started in November to 13. His all-round performance was outstanding and, if there is one better striker in the country just now, his name is Wayne Rooney.
"Louis is in great form and he merits his inclusion at the moment," said Ferguson.
"It is unfortunate for Ruud but his turn will come, no question about that."
Queiroz revealed on Friday that United's coaching team had made a point of reassuring van Nistelrooy over his position at the club, which seems to have headed off the possibility of an angry Dutchman battering Ferguson's door down.
The United manager reported 'no complaints' from van Nistelrooy over the present situation.
"He needs to be patient and he has been," said Ferguson.
"Long-term, he is a member of our squad. He has a long contract with us and I am happy with that situation."
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