Simons, formerly of Barcelona, PSG and RB Leipzig, says Van Nistelrooy gave him his first big chance as a senior player.
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He recalled to BBC Sport: "Ruud van Nistelrooy was very important to me. He brought me into the spotlight in my professional career, I am very grateful for everything he has done for me.
"Van Nistelrooy gave me the opportunity to join the national team and make my dream come true by playing a World Cup with my country at the age of nineteen.
"I also spent several hours with him in his sixteen, training on my finishing touches. Everyone knows him, a special player.”