van Nistelrooy, a talismanic goal machine

Ruud van Nistelrooy actually started out as a central defender, then progressed into center midfield, and finally converted into a center forward at FC Heerenveen in 1997. The following year, he signed for PSV Eindhoven and scored and amazing 31 goals in 34 games.

Following these exploits, Alex Ferguson came knocking, but that relationship didn't last long, and now the Dutch goal machine is banging in the goals for Real Madrid. Manchester United never looked the same after he left, and it is even more apparent this season. With Ferguson recently admitting that he made a mistake in letting Jaap Stam go , i wonder if he will admit similarly to letting van Nistelrooy go.

The Dutch master, doing what he does best in the La Liga

There are a few flaws in his game, such as his lack of pace, and unwillingness to work the channels, but dont let these distract you from his major strengths. All in all, van Nistelrooy has scored 289 in 433 games, which equates to a goals per game ratio of approximately 0.6 ! Any team would love to have such a player on their side.

To find out what drives the man, what makes him tick, do check out this article on uefa.com. Its a great insight into a great player.