Van Nistelrooy admits his delight in having his ex-Man United boss Ferguson present to watch PSV

Ruud van Nistelrooy admitted he was proud Sir Alex Ferguson was able to see him coach his PSV Eindhoven side to a 2-2 draw against Rangers in Tuesday's Champions League play-off first leg.

The former Manchester United striker spoke with his old manager – who sat in the directors box at Ibrox - after a 77th minute leveller from Armando Obispo provided a boost ahead of next week’s return match in the Netherlands.

PSV earlier took a first-half lead through Ibrahim Sangare before Rangers quickly responded with a fine move to create Antonio Colak’s equaliser.

Van Nistelrooy’s side were strong in the second period but looked set for defeat after goalkeeper Walter Benitez fumbled a Tom Lawrence free-kick.

However, Obispo ensured parity with a header from a corner, with Van Nistelrooy’s delight intensified by Ferguson’s presence.

‘I was proud that he was able to see my coach my team and manage my team,’ said the Dutchman.

‘I’m glad he’s well. I spoke to him just briefly but he’s well and looking great. His family is well.

‘As I say, it was great to see him. For him to see me on the touchline at Ibrox is a proud moment.

‘I learned so much from him. When you develop yourself as a coach, you obviously look back at the managers you had, what they did, how they formed a team, the style of play and how they managed individuals. He is such an example in that sense.

‘I had a wonderful time here. Sir Alex said: “Good to see you again”. And he thought it was a beautiful match. He said he was proud of me and he likes seeing me being a coach and running along the side of the pitch.’

Asked if he would be happy to become half as good a manager as Ferguson, Van Nistelrooy smiled: ‘If I am even one per cent as good…’

United are keen to sign Cody Gakpo but Van Nistelrooy stressed that Ferguson hadn’t asked about the PSV winger.

‘He didn’t,’ continued the 46-year-old. ‘We were just talking about how we were. We didn’t really discuss United or players. It was just a personal chat, really.’

Van Nistelrooy was pleased by PSV’s performance and the result but was reluctant to claim his side were now favourites to make the group stage.

‘Rangers became dangerous at the end but thank goodness we are playing the next leg at home,’ he added.

‘We are not expecting a lot of difference in Holland

‘We know what it is like with a great support behind us. That was today as well for Rangers. Some spells in the game the crowd lifted the team in such a way that is hard. I mean, you really notice it.

‘There are not many places where you feel it like this. Of course next week we will have that support.

‘But both teams are very level in quality and with playing styles. It is reduced to one game now with the final at home. We have to prepare and be at our best.’