Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: The Manchester United boss apologises to fans after their 4-0 defeat at Everton
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: The Manchester United boss apologises to fans after their 4-0 defeat at Everton

I am the right man for Manchester United, insists Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ahead of derby


Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes he is still the right man for the Old Trafford job despite the dramatic drop in results since his permanent appointment.

The Norwegian won 14 of his 19 games while caretaker manager, but has seen United lose four out of six since he signed a three-year deal last month, with a 4-0 rout at Everton on Sunday a new low.

Asked if he could turn it around, Solskjaer said: "I would like to to say yes. It's not down to me to say that but I'm confident in my team and I'm ready to take on the challenge.

"I know it's a big challenge, that's why I came in when I came in."

A big summer of rebuilding awaits but Solskjaer said he could be trusted to make the right calls on who stays and who goes.

"I would like to think so," he said.

"I like all these boys. I love them. They are great lads. But I have to manage for the club. I help the players but I manage for the club. I am putting all my efforts into doing what is right for the club."


Manchester derby odds (via Sky Bet)

Man United - 11/2 | Draw - 18/5 | Man City 4/9

  • Sergio Aguero to score first and Manchester City to win 2-1 - Price Boosted to 33/1
  • Marcus Rashford to score and Manchester Utd to win in 90 mins - Price Boosted to 10/1

Take a look at more markets for Wednesday's clash here


Paul Pogba scores his second penalty against West Ham
Paul Pogba scores his second penalty against West Ham earlier this month

A derby clash against title-chasing Manchester City now awaits on Wednesday night, and Solkjaer said it was the ideal fixture.

"It was the best game we could ask for now. The players are hurting. We had a meeting after the game and you can see all the players were really hurt by that performance and the City game is perfect. There is no hiding place on the pitch," he said.

"Our fans will back you whatever as long as you give that effort against a City side who have been very, very good.

"We have got to be ready for the press and the quality they have got on the ball. When we win it we have got to be ready for their aggression because they will snap at your ankles and heels and kick you.

"They will not allow us easy counter-attacking. There will be fouls, no doubt about it."

Odds correct as of 1630 BST on 23/04/19

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