Ruud fancies Vieri partnership

Van Nistelrooy grabbed a crucial second goal in Manchester United's 2-1 victory over Juventus at Old Trafford on Wednesday, but operated in his increasingly usual lone role up front.

However, the former PSV Eindhoven man has admitted that although he rates Arsenal's Thierry Henry as the top striker in the world, it would be Internazionale's Vieri that he would chose to play alongside him.

"People ask me who is the best - van Nistelrooy, Thierry Henry or Vieri?" said van Nistelrooy.

"If I exclude myself, then my list of the best strikers, in order, would be Thierry Henry, Vieri, Filippo Inzaghi and Hernan Crespo.

"But if you ask me about a partnership, then Christian Vieri is the player I'd love to play alongside one day.

"We would be the perfect pairing - and calling us 'Double V' would also be pretty cool."

The Dutch international is aware that he must start winning some silverware - but thinks that Arsenal and Real Madrid are the biggest barrier to European success.

"The time has come for me. I am absolutely desperate to win an important trophy," added the Old Trafford hero.

"I don't mind if it is The Premiership or the Champions League, though I want both. But no matter how much hard work it means, I must win one of them.

"Barcelona's Patrick Kluivert pulls my leg when we are with Holland and says: 'Where were you when I was winning the European Cup with Ajax?'

"And I have to hit back at him and say: 'Where will you be when I win the Champions League at Old Trafford this season?'

"Jokes are all very well, though. I just pray it comes true this time.

"Manchester United have everything to win the title or become champions of Europe.

"But Arsenal are going so well too. They will be our major Champions League rivals, along with Real Madrid."