Smalling: Home games are key to our ambitions

Chris Smalling believes Manchester United's remaining home games will decisively shape what the Reds can achieve this season.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s charges are two points behind fourth-placed Arsenal, and three off Tottenham Hotspur in third, heading into Saturday’s important Premier League match with Watford. Then, after a trip to Wolves, United welcome Spanish champions Barcelona to the Theatre of Dreams for the first leg of our Champions League quarter-final tie.

“I think our results at Old Trafford are going to determine how our season goes,” Smalling told United Review in an exclusive interview, ahead of our first game at the Theatre of Dreams since the 3-2 win over Southampton on 2 March.

“Getting back in front of our fans is exactly what we need.”

The centre-back, who made his 200th Premier League appearance for the club during our recent trip to Arsenal, is wary of the threat posed by this weekend’s visitors, Watford, who are eighth in the table and have also reached the Emirates FA Cup semi-finals under their impressive Spanish manager Javi Gracia.

“They’re a proven Premier League team that is always difficult,” acknowledged the 29-year-old. “Obviously, earlier in the season we were in a different moment, but that was a close game that eventually we won comfortably [Watford were beaten 2-1 at Vicarage Road in September].

“But they’ve got a lot of threats and like to play direct with [Troy] Deeney, and they’ve got some good wingers as well, so we know it’s going to be a tough game. But when we’re at home, we need to get on the front foot and take control.

“Quite often they play two up top, so we know it’s not going to be a team that’s just gonna sit back. I think they’ll come on to us, which will hopefully give us more opportunities to come onto them, so it should make for a very good game.”

Our no.12 smashed home a superb swivel volley to help us seal three points in that last meeting down south – a strike that drew comparisons with a Ruud van Nistelrooy goal at Charlton in November 2005.

“We’d been working on a lot of set plays at that time,” recalled Smalling. “Not necessarily finishes like that! But it was nice to be able to get up and running for the season, and hopefully I can get a few more.”

That goal remains the Greenwich-born player’s solitary effort so far in 2018/19, but he insists he and his colleagues must be ready to take any chance that falls to them in what is sure to be a tight game.

Smalling watched the Hornets’ recent match against league leaders Manchester City, where Gracia’s men held the Blues at 0-0 until half-time and were unfortunate to go behind to Raheem Sterling’s controversial opener after the break. But the defender is adamant that United will need to be similarly clinical today (Saturday).

“I saw the highlights and I think everyone agreed City’s first should have been offside,” he remembers. “But it’s about taking those key moments. The first goal is crucial and then it’s about just asserting ourselves and putting pressure on. Then you know you’re going to create more chances with the team that we’ve got.”

Solskjaer reacts to win over Watford

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was impressed by the potential of his Manchester United side, but is demanding more, as the Reds beat Watford in the Norwegian's first match as permanent manager.

Goals from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial either side of half-time put Ole's side in control with the Hornets' Abdoulaye Doucoure pulling one back in the final minute.

Speaking to MUTV after the game, Solskjaer pointed out things to improve on, while supplying his reaction to the fans' banner before kick-off and the pass from Luke Shaw to Marcus Rashford for the opener.

OUR CHANGE OF SYSTEM MADE THE DIFFERENCE

“It’s always hard work when you play in the Premier League and, of course today, it showed that we’d been away on internationals. It showed that a few players have been injured, not really 100 per cent match-fit yet, but we got through it and that’s important. We started off sloppily. The first 15-20 minutes, I think Watford deserved to get the lead. It was almost like we were waiting for them to score.

”We managed to change the system a little bit and got into the game. Juan [Mata] got into the game for us. We created chances. We scored a great goal, could have had more goals because it was end-to-end in the last 20 minutes of the first half. The second half was disappointing, again.“

THE PLAYERS HAVE BEEN MAGNIFICENT

“We’ve been excellent. The players have been excellent, they’ve done magnificent. The training on Friday was the best since I’ve been here, maybe too good. The intensity, the quality, the focus was good. Then we came out here and we were a little bit unsure. But after 15-20 minutes today we could see what the potential is in this group and we can improve on the second half.”

OUR CENTRE-BACKS WERE CRUCIAL

“Shawy [Luke Shaw], I think he was one of the big plusses. Rashy and Anthony up front too, but the two centre-backs with [Phil] Jones, especially, and Chris [Smalling], I thought they defended well for us. Without them today, I think it would have been a different result, I have to say.”

A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR MARCUS

“He’s confident. He’s practised more and more finishing. Not only his shots, he’s doing more and more, wants to do more and more, and he’ll turn into a very good goalscorer. Don’t worry about that.”

OUR SUBS MADE AN IMPACT

“Yeah, of course. It’s energy, it’s young boys, it’s our own Academy players and we need energy and I have to say they [Jesse Lingard and Andreas Pereira] spurred us on a little bit because we looked a little jaded after about an hour and they came on and made a difference.”

WAS MARTIAL INJURED?

“I’m not sure how he’ll be for Tuesday, but we’ll check on him and we’ve got a couple of days now to get ready for Tuesday. That’s the main thing.”

THE OLD TRAFFORD SUPPORT

“I have to say the fans have been unbelievable with me ever since I came here in 1996. They made today special. It’s not about me today, but it’s the first game in the rest of the season, so fantastic.”

Premier League: Man. United 2 Watford 1

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer marked the start to his permanent reign as Manchester United boss with a win against Watford but it was, ultimately, a nail-biting beginning to the new era.

The Reds were in subdued form but went ahead in the match with a first-half goal from Marcus Rashford, before adding another from Anthony Martial in the second 45 minutes. Lively visitors Watford wouldn’t lie down and, after an impressive display, scored a late goal from Abdoulaye Doucoure to set up a worrying last few seconds. United survived to get back to winning ways but Solskjaer gave the impression as he walked off at the end clapping the crowd that he’d come close to a setback.

Old Trafford welcomed Thursday’s news of Solksjaer’s appointment with a huge ‘20LEGEND’ banner that travelled across the heads of the Stretford End fans in recognition of the Norwegian.

The stadium echoed to a back catalogue of tribute songs to the former striker but, as the boss said, this is where the serious work starts and United were distinctly off the pace as we attempted to return to winning ways following back-to-back away defeats before the international break.

The Reds were lethargic as Javi Gracia’s impressive footballing side took command with their slick play. While Watford found their rhythm immediately with sweeping moves that created untold problems for United, the Reds, on the other hand, just couldn’t string any passes together.

Every attempt to break out from Watford’s pressure broke down easily. The visitors had numerous moments chances but United were fortunate their finishing didn’t match their approach work.

Doucoure and Troy Deeney both had opportunities to threaten David De Gea but failed to make there Spaniard work hard. Deeney’s powerful presence almost set up another penalty area chance that De Gea pawed away to safety.

United’s danger was limited but, unlike Watford, when the hosts finally created something of real note, we opened the scoring.

Luke Shaw brilliantly put the brake on penetrating run by Deeney, set off himself upfield and delivered a superb pass to Rashford after 28 minutes. The striker coolly steered his shot past the on-rushing former Reds goalkeeper Ben Foster.

It could have been 2-0, four minutes later, but for a great stop by Foster with his legs as Martial powered in a left-foot drive from just eight yards, following a clever corner routine.

With our noses in front, United had settled down but opportunities remained sparse and, with Doucoure a prominent danger in Watford’s midfield, United’s lead wasn’t a comfortable one.

United really needed to start the second half at a far brisker pace than they had at the opening of the game but it was a similar scenario. It allowed Watford to continue with the composure that hadn’t really been damaged even by Rashford’s goal. They were bright and on top again but a Daryl Janmaat wild piledriver let United off the hook in the 51st minute then, seconds later, Roberto Pereyra created an opening for himself that De Gea managed to smuggle away for a corner.

Watford kept up the early post-interval pressure and Will Hughes curled a shot just wide with the Reds unable to get any traction in the match.

Solskjaer made his first changes after 62 minutes in an effort to inject some vibrant new blood into the Reds' engine room. He brought on Jesse Lingard and Andreas Pereira for Juan Mata and Ander Herrera.

It took the new boys 10 minutes before they really made an impression but, when they finally did, it was a goal-making one. Andreas fed Lingard on the overlap in the 72nd minute and his cross sparked a scramble inside the six-yard area with Martial’s initial stab being blocked by Foster but the Frenchman got up to twist and steer home at the second attempt.

It had been a carbon-copy second half to the first 45 minutes with Watford dangerous but United surviving and snatching the goal. The boss had not looked in over-celebratory mood on the bench as United gave themselves some breathing space. Maybe he had sensed that with his side not at their best, there might still be some further action.

If so, he was bang on as Watford refused to buckle and accept defeat. In the 89th minute, our defence was opened up simply with a zippy move from the Hornets and Doucoure forced his way through to provide the sting in the tail with a simple finish past De Gea.

It meant a nail-biting finale which United survived and Solskjaer puffed out his cheeks in relief at the final whistle.

United: De Gea; Young (c), Jones, Smalling, Shaw; Herrera (Andreas 62), Matic, Pogba; Mata (Lingard 62), Rashford, Martial (Rojo 76).

Subs not used: Romero, Dalot, Fred, Lukaku.

Goals: Rashford 28, Martial 72

Bookings: Andreas

Watford: Foster, Janmaat (Femenia 55), Britos, Kabasele, Masina, Capoue, Hughes (Success 82), Doucoure, Pereyra, Deulofeu (Gray 73), Deeney.

Subs: Gomes, Cathcart, Quina, Holebas.

Goals: Doucoure 89

Bookings: Hughes, Masina

Attendance: 74,543

Ole's team news update ahead of Watford

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has provided an exclusive team news bulletin to our Official App ahead of Saturday's return to Premier League action against Watford.

A number of Reds stars were forced to withdraw from their international squads due to various injury niggles, but only three players have definitely been ruled out of the boss's plans for the 15:00 GMT kick-off.

Alexis Sanchez is back at the club as he steps up his recovery from a knee problem, while defenders Matteo Darmian and Antonio Valencia are also still out.

“We’ve had a very good training week,” Ole told the Official App. “Some have been away and have come back okay.

”Alexis has just come back and there is only him who is out, along with Matteo and Antonio. Those three are out.

“We’ll have to check on one or two of the others.”

WHAT ABOUT THE REST OF THE SQUAD?

In terms of options up front, Romelu Lukaku missed the Emirates FA Cup tie with Wolves and Belgium's subsequent Euro 2020 qualifiers with a foot problem, while fellow forwards Anthony Martial (France) and Marcus Rashford (England) also missed out for their respective countries.

Eric Bailly sustained a head injury with Ivory Coast in a win over Rwanda and sat out the latter fixture against Liberia as a precaution.

Jesse Lingard has been stepping up his fitness during the break after featuring at Molineux and should hopefully be available.

HOW ABOUT THE VISITORS?

Watford welcome Greek full-back Jose Holebas back into the fold after injury, but Tom Cleverley will not be able to enjoy an Old Trafford reunion after the former United man suffered a calf problem.

Hornets boss Javi Gracia has all of the other members of his 26-man squad available as the FA Cup semi-finalists look forward to a big week for the club.

Talking points for our Old Trafford return

Manchester United fans have waited two weeks for a first-team game - and double that duration for a home one. Here are the main topics of discussion as the Reds make a welcome return to the Theatre of Dreams...

READY TO GO AGAIN

After an international break that seemed to drag even longer than usual for a number of reasons, we’re back at Old Trafford for the last match of a mad March which has encapsulated the incredible highs and sudden lows that only football can serve up.

The five-goal thriller at home to Southampton on 2 March was quickly followed by one of the most remarkable games in this club’s long and storied history, a night in Paris that will live long in the memory. We were brought back down to earth with a bump following the Emirates FA Cup exit to Wolves and Premier League defeat at Arsenal, before the campaign paused for the internationals.

Now, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer permanently at the wheel, the plan is to get back on track and end the month with a rousing win over Watford as we head into a frenetic finale to 2018/19.

AN EPIC APRIL LIES AHEAD

After the Watford match, we'll be back in action in just three days’ time with a quick return to Molineux - the stadium we visited in the Cup a fortnight ago. Tuesday's league match will be the first of what is currently seven fixtures across two competitions in April; that number would rise to eight if another phenomenal double-header in Europe is negotiated to book a Champions League semi-final slot.

Old Trafford season-ticket holders have the small matter of a first-leg clash with Barcelona on 10 April and the Manchester derby to look forward to 14 days later; we'll also have two visits from the capital in the shape of West Ham and Chelsea, with the latter clearly being huge in the race for the top four.

For travelling fans, there is the prospect of trips to the Black Country, Catalonia and Merseyside… what a month!

RECOVERY AND RECUPERATION FOR REDS

A gruelling and intense run of games in three competitions during March began to take its toll on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s ranks, with a group of players forced to pull out of their international squads over the last couple of weeks.

Paul Pogba, David De Gea, Diogo Dalot, Scott McTominay and Antonio Valencia survived their call-ups unscathed, although Eric Bailly picked up a head knock in Ivory Coast’s match with Rwanda. Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, Jesse Lingard, Anthony Martial, Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic were among the Reds who were unable to play for their countries due to injury, while Alexis had already been ruled out.

Fingers crossed, the recovery period since 16 March has eased many of those aching limbs and the recently injured are close to being ready for club selection again.

M16 IN THE AREA

There’s no place like home, and that’s certainly been the case for Ole in the Premier League, with four wins, two draws and no defeats at Old Trafford so far.

In fact, the loss to Tottenham way back in August remains our only home loss in the league this season, and maintaining that strong form in M16 will be vital if we’re to end the campaign on a high.

Come on, United!

Reds support anti-racism campaign

As part of Manchester United’s ongoing commitment to equality under its #allredallequal campaign, the club is supporting the Premier League’s ‘No Room for Racism’ campaign, using the power and popularity of the league to oppose racism in football.

This forms part of a nationwide anti-discrimination focus period in football, which will also recognise the contribution made by Kick It Out in tackling discrimination since it was formed 25 years ago.

Kick It Out, football’s equality and inclusion organisation, has worked to challenge discrimination, encourage inclusive practices and campaign for positive change throughout its history.

Initially, the organisation was set up as ‘Let’s Kick Racism Out of Football’ in 1993, and then later established as widening out its objectives to cover all aspects of discrimination, inequality and exclusion.

Manchester United has a long history of working with Kick It Out, with the club having supported the campaign since its development in 1993.

United continues to develop its work within this essential area, as the club’s Inclusion Networks, with the support of Executive Sponsors, go from strength to strength in ensuring that Old Trafford is an inclusive and welcoming environment to all staff, supporters and visitors.

Ahead of Saturday’s kick-off against Watford, there will be a number of dedicated campaign materials in place highlighting the ‘No Room for Racism’ campaign and acknowledging Kick It Out’s 25th Anniversary. Both captains will also be wearing a Kick It Out armband and players from both sides will take part in a pre-match photo.

Speaking of Manchester United’s progress and work around equality, diversity and inclsuion, Group Managing Director Richard Arnold said:

“Our #allredallequal campaign and the work we’re doing in this area is something that we are all immensely proud of, and demonstrates Manchester United’s long-standing commitment to the club’s values around inclusion.

”We are fortunate to have staff and supporters from diverse backgrounds, and embrace the responsibility we all have to ensure that Old Trafford is a home for all Reds.”

Lindelof: Watford will be tough but I'm ready

Victor Lindelof feels he will relish the physical battles that Watford attacking duo Andre Gray and Troy Deeney could pose when the Hornets visit Old Trafford on Saturday.

The Swedish defender has had a key influence in United’s campaign this season, having appeared in 25 Premier League games so far.

He also scored a dramatic late goal against Burnley - his first for the club - to snatch a point at Old Trafford back in January.

As the Premier League returns to Old Trafford on Saturday, Lindelof is upbeat about the prospect of taking on Deeney and Gray, who have been in good form for Javi Gracia's side.

“I don’t have a problem with it - I like it,“ the 24-year-old told MUTV. "I’m ready for it. If they want to get physical, I’m down for it.“

“They are two physical players. They like to be physical. That’s not a problem for me. I like that and I don’t have a problem with him. But they always work hard like I said. They run a lot. They never give up. In every challenge, they go up to win it and it’s something you have to be ready for.”

Victor also spoke highly of the progress made by the Hornets, who are currently as high as eighth in the league and enjoying a strong campaign.

“They are a good team,” our no.2 commented. “I have played against them a few times and they are a very, very strong team. They work very, very hard for each other.

”It will be a very hard game. They always give 110 per cent on the pitch.”

'MANY REDS DESERVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR ACCOLADE'

The former Benfica man also believes that a lot of United players have performed well this season and many deserve to win the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Season award.

Victor said: “A lot of players have performed well during the season. They’ve been showing their abilities. They helped us a lot. I can’t sit here and name one player. I think, a lot of players deserve it.”

HOW I COMMUNICATE WITH OLE

With his fellow Scandinavian, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, now the permanent manager at Old Trafford, Lindelof has hailed the influence the Norwegian has had at the club since his arrival - initially as caretaker boss - back in December.

“He’s been great to all the players,“ Victor said. ”He’s helped me a lot as well. Like I always say, he’s come in with a big smile. He talked to me and told me to express myself on the pitch and do the things that I’m good at. I think I have been doing that a lot. But its always nice to hear that from your coach because it gives you a little more confidence.”

‘The Iceman’ also told us that he talks to Solskjaer in Swedish and Ole talks to him in Norwegian.

He said: “I speak to him in Swedish and he speaks in Norwegian back to me. It’s nice to speak a bit of Swedish. They’re quite similar. It’s just how you pronounce words. Some words are different, but it’s not a problem. I understand everything he says. The same’s with him.”

Solskjaer discusses transfer speculation

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer expects Manchester United to be doing some transfer business in the summer as he has revealed he's already relishing the chance to work in pre-season with his squad for the 2019/20 season.

Our legendary striker was confirmed as permanent manager on Thursday and addressed the media at Old Trafford, facing a number of questions about possible incomings at the club.

As usual, the Reds continue to be linked with new names in different positions every single day, but Ole is calm on that front. Despite some people speculating as to whether missing out on the Champions League next season could have an impact on the quality of players we could attract, Ole feels this will not necessarily be the case.

Indeed, Paul Pogba signed for the club in the summer of 2016 – ahead of our successful Europa League campaign – when we were not in Europe’s premier competition. Nevertheless, United are still very much in the hunt for a top-four place and remain in the Champions League as Ole also looks forward to talking about the future with the players already at his disposal.

“Of course, we've been discussing how to move the club forward,” Solskjaer said. “That doesn't mean we've said x amount of money or x amount of players. We've sat down and discussed, but now it's easier to be clear about what we need to do because we will do some business this summer.”

He went on: “Of course, the lure, if you want, of the Champions League is important. It might be important for some players but, to play for Man United, you know if you sign a contract for five years or four years, you're going to be playing in the Champions League.

”We are now in a great position to get into the Champions League, but that's not decided until 12 May probably. So, we need to get going before then with talks about players, with players, who's going to stay here, but I still say the same. I love working with these boys and the improvement has been here, so that's the short-term priority now.

”You know there's been so many players that have been written about, who we've been interested in, and there are so many players or players’ agents that have been in touch with our administration [to say] that they want to come here. I'm sure when we decide what we have to do, hopefully, we'll get them by pre-season.

”But everything is step by step. You don't make radical changes and, of course, I can't wait to get to a pre-season with the players, because obviously each coach and each manager, we have got different ways of playing, different training systems and methods. But we are a huge club with loads of tradition.

“I know we will be successful, but it's about taking it step by step. It might be putting the right people in the right positions in different places at the club, but I have to say we can't complain, can we? It's a fantastically well-run club.”

Ole's aiming for the moon!

Phil Neville believes Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is heeding some advice from former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson as he looks to write an exciting new chapter in the club's history.

Neville, who played alongside Solskjaer at the club just over 200 times, has been thrilled with Ole's impact since taking caretaker charge in December, and will clearly be supporting the decision made official on Thursday to appoint the Norwegian on a permanent basis.

Speaking recently at Hotel Football, to help promote the upcoming Treble Reunion at Old Trafford on 26 May, the ex-Reds defender insists his pal's determination to strive for the very best, with no limitations, is at the root of his success as a manager.

When asked if he felt Ole always had the personality and character required in order to become a manager, Neville replied: “Absolutely. I mean on bus rides and journeys to away games and hotels, he was always playing the computer game Football Manager, that’s been widely spoken about.

”I was sat next to him a lot on the bench and he was a student. He understood football. He used to come on in games and get the pace of it straight away. He did that because he had great football intelligence. There’s the baby face and, yes, he’s a fantastic person but there is also a steeliness about him as well.

“I think I just love what he has done so far and what he has brought. It feels like I’m watching Manchester United – a club and a team that is enjoying itself, going for it and playing with the DNA of our football club. I think his press conferences every week are fantastic. He inspires and is carrying and inspiring a set of supporters who need inspiring.

”Sir Alex used to say to us: 'Aim for the moon'. 'Aim for the moon' and that is what Ole has brought back to the club.“

Ole: Now the hard work starts

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said he is honoured and privileged to be confirmed as the permanent Manchester United manager.

It was announced on Thursday morning that the boss has signed a three-year deal with the club and, speaking in his first press conference since the news was broken, Ole revealed he is looking forward to the challenge ahead.

“I don't think proud is the right word,“ he said at a press conference at Old Trafford. ”I'm happy, I'm honoured, because it's a fresh start.

“It’s the start of something new again. Now, the hard work starts. Now, it's the hard work, the enjoyable work, so it's not the moment to be proud in that respect.

“You know when people get a new job and they say it's their dream job and they've always dreamed about or played for that club or managed a club. That's more to me than to anyone.

“This has been my ultimate dream all the time. Maybe a naive dream, but I've always had that dream in my mind to have this responsibility for this huge, fantastic family of a football club and I'm so honoured and privileged to be given this fantastic responsibility to lead us forward.”

Ole was previously appointed on an interim basis in December and has performed superbly in the last few months, winning 14 of his 19 games in charge.

For that reason, the boss has said he will not start changing things now he has been announced as the permanent manager.

“I'm just going to be myself as I've always been and I know the expectations of the club, the traditions of the club, the history that we've got.

“Of course, I want to be successful, of course I want us to lift trophies, but I can't wait to get on to the job, on to the challenge of improving this great bunch of players, because it's a squad full of potential.

“I've worked with them for three months or we have worked for three months as a group. The improvement is there to be seen and we know there's so much more to come from them.

“We can see so much more improvement. We see them every single day in training. Their attitude has been fantastic, but we know we've got a way to go. I'm sure we'll be successful.“

For Ole, the next aim is securing the Reds’ spot in the top four at the end of the season, with the Champions League quarter-final ties against Barcelona also on the horizon.

“Of course, when I got the job, we were 11 points behind fourth. Now we've given ourselves a great chance to be in the top four and even top three, so that's going to be the short-term target in the league.

“The Premier League is vital for us and, of course, we've been discussing how to move the club forward.

“We've got a chance, of course we have. It's going to be a tough one. There's going to be a mountain to climb, but we've climbed a few mountains before.”

Schmeichel: Ole came up smelling of roses

Manchester United great Peter Schmeichel believes Ole Gunnar Solskjaer proved his managerial ability during the goalless draw with Liverpool at Old Trafford, and says that was the moment he was convinced his fellow Treble winner was the right man for the job.

The Norwegian, who has been confirmed as permanent manager on a three-year contract, was tested by injuries to key players during the 0-0 stalemate and has since, of course, masterminded an amazing turnaround against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League knockout stages.

Schmeichel, who will be returning to Old Trafford on 26 May as part of the Treble Reunion fixture against Bayern Munich, admits his former team-mate is showing he can handle anything that is thrown at him.

“I think he’s doing very well,” Schmeichel told MUTV, during a recent visit with Manchester United Foundation to Elm Wood Primary School in Middleton. “He’s grabbed his opportunity and it’s been easier for him than other managers because he was announced as temporary manager.

“It gives you the opportunity to go and let the players do their job. He didn’t have to be so careful and cautious as it didn’t matter if he loses a game. It didn’t really, as he was only there temporarily. Of course, he put himself in the position where I can’t see anyone being in a better position than him.

”Therefore, you look at how does he react and Liverpool was a God-send for him, in so far as what happened. I don’t think any manager has ever been faced with a player being injured in the first minutes and then preparing the substitutes but, before you make a sub, you’ve made three substitutions for other players to come in.

”That happened to Ole and he had to make decisions like that but still gets it right. There was a lot of preparation going into the game and how he approached it and this is our plan, but it went out of the window in one minute or so. He still got it perfectly right. And he came out of that game, for me, smelling of roses.

”If I needed more convincing, for me, that was it. It was great to get a draw there with the problems we had in that game. We had chances and, when I look back, we should have won the game but that’s nothing against Ole. I thought he did fantastic in the way he regrouped the players and was brave enough to put [Andreas] Pereira in. He hadn’t even warmed up. The team didn’t look too different, if you know what I’m saying.

”You wondered can they play without [Nemanja] Matic, but they’ve got [Scott] McTominay in there. Matic is a different type of player but, in this one game, you couldn’t see the difference. I think that comes down to the manager and how he prepares the players and how he works with them, plus how he takes care of everyone to make sure they know what is required.

“He knows what he needs from them. In this very short period he’s been manager, it’s so evident he works on the players’ strengths.“

The backroom staff have helped bring a United feel to the dug-out and Schmeichel believes it is this strong team ethic that is helping to bring the best out of the players on the pitch.

”It does feel like a united unit with a United team,” he said. “That is something that makes me very happy.

”In many ways, Ole was an unexpected candidate who has gone there and put so much Manchester United back into it. Mike Phelan coming back is a great decision as he trusts him. Michael Carrick, again, is a Manchester United great, so he’s there and you can just see Ole makes the decisions but not without talking to these guys.

“This is what the club needs now. Seriously, we need a good injection of Manchester United culture into that part of the club and, from 22 December [with the win at Cardiff City] to now, it’s a very short period of time, I think it’s very, very clear the effect of doing that and what it can do to the team.”

Ole reacts to appointment

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer gave his reaction to being made permanent manager of Manchester United in an exclusive interview with MUTV.

The interview, which can be viewed in full on the Manchester United Official App, shows how delighted and honoured he feels to have been appointed on a three-year contract.

Here's an extract of his interview with Mark Sullivan...

Firstly Ole, how does it feel to become the permanent manager of this great club?
“It’s truly an honour. I think everyone knows, and I’ve spoken about it in the last few months, that this is the dream job for any football-interested man, especially anyone who has been involved with Man United. Being given the opportunity now to move the club forward, with all the potential there is, it’s fantastic.”

You’ve had great backing from our amazing fans, how does that feel?
“I’ve always had it but I have to say the last few months have been absolutely crazy with the way they’ve taken to the players, to me and to the coaching staff. We’ve really appreciated that support and hopefully we can pay them back now.”

Solskjaer announced as full-time manager

Manchester United announces that current caretaker manager and former striker, Ole Gunnar Solskjær, has been appointed as the club’s full-time manager on a three-year contract.

Solskjær scored 126 goals in 366 appearances for United between 1996 and 2007 and also managed the club’s reserve team until the end of 2010. He was appointed caretaker manager on 19 December 2018 and won his first eight games in charge on the way to an overall record of 14 victories and two draws in 19 games, amassing more Premier League points than any other club during that time.

“From the first day I arrived, I felt at home at this special club,” said Solskjær. “It was an honour to be a Manchester United player, and then to start my coaching career here. The last few months have been a fantastic experience and I want to thank all of the coaches, players and staff for the work we’ve done so far. This is the job that I always dreamed of doing and I’m beyond excited to have the chance to lead the club long-term and hopefully deliver the continued success that our amazing fans deserve.”

Ed Woodward, Executive Vice Chairman, comments: “Since coming in as caretaker manager in December, the results Ole has delivered speak for themselves.

“More than just performances and results, Ole brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and as a coach, coupled with a desire to give young players their chance and a deep understanding of the culture of the club. This all means that he is the right person to take Manchester United forward.

“I want to thank Ole and the coaching team for everything they have done so far and congratulate him on this richly deserved appointment. The fans and everyone at the club are behind him as he looks to take us where we need to be and build the next stage of our history.”

Reds confirm tour games in China, Singapore and Wales

Manchester United is to play three additional matches as part of its summer tour.

United will take on Inter Milan at the National Stadium Singapore on 20 July, before travelling to Shanghai to face Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the Hongkou Stadium on 25 July.

A third match is also scheduled against AC Milan on 3 August, to be played at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff.

These games are in addition to the two previously-announced matches on 13 and 17 July, against Perth Glory and Leeds United respectively, at the Optus Stadium, Perth.

Manchester United’s Executive Vice Chairman, Ed Woodward, comments:

“These games, and the tour overall, will not only assist in our pre-season preparations, but also provide entertaining football and an opportunity to interact with our loyal fans in Australasia and Asia.

“This will be our third visit to Singapore and our fifteenth pre-season visit to China and we’re excited to be returning to both countries to play against top-class opposition there.”

All Tour 2019 games will be shown live on MUTV.

For more information visit www.manutd.com/tour2019.

Herrera and Mata's surprise appearance

Manchester United midfielders Ander Herrera and Juan Mata surprised children recently when they joined in with their evening football session.

On a grey and rainy Manchester day, the Spanish stars turned up to a Manchester United Foundation Street Reds project. The session, held at Manchester Health Academy in Wythenshawe, saw the Reds take part in football tennis and a five-a-side game with the local children.

Ander and Juan then sat down with a small group to find out more about their experience of the Street Reds project and the impact football has on their day-to-day lives.

Through Street Reds, Manchester United Foundation uses the power of football to give young people aged 8-18 an opportunity to pursue their interest in playing, leading and coaching football.
This community initiative runs throughout the boroughs of Greater Manchester where sessions are free to join and all abilities are welcome.

Speaking about the importance of football sessions like Street Reds, Ander said: “It’s very important; football can help young children avoid certain temptations. I met most of my friends playing football; I think it’s a great opportunity to become a good person and make friends.

“It’s particularly important as many children stay at home and play on their PlayStations or tablets,” agreed Juan. “It’s very important for children to go out, get fresh air and play sports. Football has been the biggest part of my life; I made most of my relationships and friendships through football. It can change your life.”

Juan continued: “The work Manchester United Foundation does is helping the next generation, whether that be through football, education or projects like Street Reds around Greater Manchester.”

Who'll finish the season as United's top scorer?

There is a close fight going on in the battle to be Manchester United's leading goalscorer in the 2018/19 season.

Whether solely focusing on the Premier League, or considering all competitions, Romelu Lukaku is currently a single strike ahead of his closest competitor, midfielder Paul Pogba.

Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial are also in the hunt as they could easily force their way ahead of Lukaku and Pogba with a strong end to the campaign.

Lukaku, who missed our last outing, the Emirates FA Cup defeat at Wolves, and both of Belgium's Euro 2020 qualifiers with a foot problem, leads the way with 15 goals.

Pogba is one behind, with five of his efforts coming from the penalty spot, as he enjoys one of the most productive seasons of his career so far.

Rashford improved his tally to 12 goals with the late consolation at Wolves last time out, nudging one ahead of French forward Martial in all competitions, with the pair tied on nine at Premier League level.

With so much at stake in the remaining part of the campaign, it will be interesting to see who comes out on top in May.

Early team news for Watford clash

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a number of injury concerns to contend with ahead of Manchester United’s return to Premier League action against Watford this weekend.

The Reds will be back at Old Trafford for the first time since our 3-2 win over Southampton on 2 March, when Javi Gracia’s in-form Hornets side visit on Saturday (kick-off 15:00 GMT).

We assess where the squad is at following the final international break of the season and the options which could be at Ole’s disposal…

GOALKEEPERS

David De Gea, who helped Spain beat Norway 2-1 last Saturday but sat out Tuesday's 2-0 win at Malta, is expected to return in goal to maintain his ever-present record in the Premier League this season. He would replace Sergio Romero, who impressed in our Emirates FA Cup tie at Wolves before the break but wasn’t involved in Argentina’s friendlies against Venezuela and Morocco.

DEFENDERS

Ashley Young is back in contention to face his former club on Saturday after serving an FA Cup suspension against Wolves last time out. Eric Bailly reportedly suffered a head injury on duty for Ivory Coast during their 3-0 win over Rwanda, in which he scored his second international goal, and didn't play in Tuesday's 1-0 friendly victory over Liberia. Victor Lindelof didn’t go away with Sweden, however club captain Antonio Valencia, who hasn’t featured for the Reds since our 2-0 win at Newcastle on 2 January, returned to action for Ecuador in Friday's 1-0 defeat against the USA but didn't feature in Tuesday's goalless draw against Honduras. It remains to be seen if Luke Shaw will be fit for Saturday’s game after the left-back withdrew from the England squad through injury. Phil Jones has also been an unused substitute in recent weeks, including at Wolves on 16 March, and could be closer to a first outing since our 3-0 win at Fulham on 9 February. Matteo Darmian hasn’t played since the 2-1 win over Brighton on 19 January, while Marcos Rojo still awaits his first appearance under Solskjaer but has been pictured training recently following his recovery from injury.

MIDFIELDERS

Nemanja Matic, who recently missed four successive games for United through injury, was ruled out of Serbia’s matches against Germany and Portugal during the break. Ander Herrera recovered from the injury which forced him off in the first half against Liverpool on 24 February to make his comeback at Molineux in our last match, while fellow Spaniard Juan Mata returned from the injury he also suffered against Liverpool as a late substitute against Wolves. Writing in his blog last Sunday, Juan said: “In terms of training sessions, this week has been a very positive one for me. I have made the most of the chance to get in top shape after making my return in the FA Cup not long ago. I am feeling good and I am looking forward to doing whatever I can to help the team as much as possible.”

FORWARDS

Solskjaer could have a selection dilemma in attack to contend with. Jesse Lingard, who returned to action against Wolves in our last game, wasn’t called up by England and instead worked on his fitness by training in Dubai. Marcus Rashford had to withdraw from Gareth Southgate’s squad through injury and Anthony Martial also pulled out of his international commitments with France due to a recurring knee complaint. Romelu Lukaku sat out Belgium’s two Euro 2020 qualifiers with the foot injury which led to him missing our FA Cup tie at Wolves, while Ole has confirmed that Alexis Sanchez isn’t expected to return until late April after sustaining a knee injury in our last home game against Southampton.

Ole could give an update on the squad in his exclusive interview with MUTV or pre-match press conference at the Aon Training Complex on Friday, which you can follow in the Official Manchester United App.

The run-in: United's race for a top-four place

The battle for a top-four place in the 2018/19 Premier League looks set to go right down to the wire.

Manchester United are currently fifth in the table, two points adrift of Arsenal. Tottenham are a single point ahead of their north London neighbours in third position while fellow capital club Chelsea remain very much in the mix in sixth, a point adrift of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men.

Liverpool and Manchester City are clear at the top and, unless something extraordinary happens, appear set to scrap it out for the title.

Of course, United and Spurs also have Champions League commitments, while Arsenal and Chelsea are pursuing Europa League glory - and another possible avenue into next season's Champions League.

So, with eight league games left for each of the clubs, what does the run-in have in store? We take a club-by-club look...

UNITED

Sat 30 March - Watford (H)
Tues 2 April - Wolves (A)
Sat 13 April - West Ham (H)
Sun 21 April - Everton (A)
Wed 24 April - Man City (H)
Sun 28 April - Chelsea (H)
Sat 4 May - Huddersfield (A) *
Sun 12 May - Cardiff City (H)

TOTTENHAM

Sun 31 March - Liverpool (H)
Wed 3 April - Crystal Palace (H)
Sat 13 April - Huddersfield (H)
Sat 20 April - Man City (A)
Sat 27 April - West Ham (H)
Sat 4 May - Bournemouth (A) *
Sun 12 May - Everton (H)

DATE TBC - Brighton (H)

ARSENAL

Mon 1 April - Newcastle (H)
Sun 7 April - Everton (A)
Mon 15 April - Watford (A)
Sat 20 April - Crystal Palace (H)
Mon 29 April - Leicester City (A)
Sat 4 May - Brighton (H) *
Sun 12 May - Burnley (A)

DATE TBC - Wolves (A)

CHELSEA

Sun 31 Mar - Cardiff City (A)
Mon 8 April - West Ham (H)
Sun 14 April - Liverpool (A)
Mon 22 April - Burnley (H)
Sun 28 April - United (A)
Sat 4 May - Watford (H) *
Sun 12 May - Leicester City (A)

DATE TBC - Brighton (H)

* = Fixture is still subject to change for live television coverage.

'That Anfield win was one of the happiest moments'

Hi everyone, we are now coming into the start of the final stretch of the season. We have less than two months to finish the campaign in the best possible shape, and we are looking forward to getting back in action against Watford this upcoming Saturday at Old Trafford.

In terms of training sessions, this week has been a very positive one for me. I have made the most of the chance to get in top shape after making my return in the FA Cup not long ago. I am feeling good and I am looking forward to doing whatever I can to help the team as much as possible.

Last week many of you reminded me that it had been four years since that win at Anfield where I was lucky enough to score twice. Time has passed, but without doubt I can say that it was one of the happiest moments of my career.

Everything went well that day… passes, touches, the first goal and then the second… our fans were in the corner closest to it where they could celebrate. One decides to become a football player for moments like that, the most special thing is to see the effect that it has on so many people, it gives a meaning to everything. It was an unforgettable day.

After the week of internationals, I want to congratulate the Spanish national team for starting off their European qualification campaign with a win. It was tougher than deserved, and it was played in a style that I love.

Jaime Mata made his debut, who I’m not related to (as far as I know), but who I was happy to see play after a career that has been full of dedication and patience. The same goes for Sergio Canales, who has had to overcome a number of serious injuries. He is a role model and a great player. He deserves it.

It is also worth mentioning England’s start. On top of the plenty of goals they scored, they are building something good. We already saw a lot of positives at the World Cup under Gareth Southgate, and it is clear that with some of the new generation they are forming a very competitive team.

Finally, Louis van Gaal announced his retirement recently. I wish him the best in the next chapter in his life and I would like to thank him for the time that we spent together (including that game at Anfield).

He was an amazing coach, a sensitive and honest person despite looking tough on the outside, a man with principles and a great person. Thank you, Louis, I wish you all the best.

Hugs, Juan.

You can read the full blog post here on my website, JuanMata8.com.

The week ahead for United

The return of Premier League football this weekend means things ramp up again at Manchester United, especially as we enter the final stage of the season.

With several of our international stars still in action early in the week and our Women and Under-18 sides also playing, there is plenty to keep an eye out for over the next seven days…

MONDAY

Paul Pogba and his France team-mates welcome Iceland to Paris in their second qualifying game for Euro 2020. The match kicks off at 19:45 GMT and you can follow Pogba's progress in our International Reds blog, as is the case with all of United’s international players during the week. Meanwhile, on this day in 2000, Paul Scholes netted that outrageous volley, from David Beckham's corner, against Bradford City. To celebrate we will be reviewing some of the club’s best-ever volleys on our website and app.

TUESDAY

The international fixtures continue as David De Gea and Spain travel to Malta in Group F, while Eric Bailly and Ivory Coast take on Liberia in a friendly, providing the centre-back has recovered from the head injury he sustained at the weekend.

WEDNESDAY

The final international game of the break, involving a United player, sees Ecuador take on Honduras in the early hours of the morning, where club captain Antonio Valencia could be involved.

THURSDAY

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will train with a full squad for the first time in nearly two weeks ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Watford. United have won the last four meetings with the Hornets and, last season, a Marcus Rashford strike meant we won 1-0 at Old Trafford, in Michael Carrick’s last game before retirement.

FRIDAY

The manager is set to host his pre-match press conference at the Aon Training Complex, and, with so many Reds currently struggling with injury, he should give some indication as to who will be available to take on Watford. As usual, you can watch Ole’s press conference on MUTV. Elsewhere, this date marks five years since Juan Mata netted his first United goal in a 4-1 win against Aston Villa.

SATURDAY

Our Under-18 side kick-off a busy weekend when Neil Ryan's boys take on Wolves at St George’s Park. The match begins at 11:30 GMT and can be viewed live on MUTV. Later that afternoon, Ole’s Reds are back in action as Watford make the journey north to Old Trafford. The game kicks off at 15:00 GMT and a win for United would, at least temporarily, see us move back into the top four with Chelsea and Arsenal not playing until Sunday and Monday respectively.

SUNDAY

It’s a huge afternoon for Manchester United Women, as Casey Stoney’s side travel to take on first-placed Tottenham Hotspur Ladies at Theobalds Lane. The game kicks off at 14:00 BST, but don’t forget the clocks go forward in the early hours on Sunday morning! Meanwhile, this day also marks the last goals scored for United by two club legends. Sir Bobby Charlton netted for the final time in a red shirt in 1973 against Southampton, while current caretaker boss Solskjaer did the same in 2007, during a 4-1 win over Blackburn Rovers.

The king of Cluedo and a Federer fan

So what is our Scotland international midfielder Scott McTominay into away from football? The beautiful game of Cluedo, for one thing! All is revealed in our exclusive Inside United magazine feature...

WHAT I'M WATCHING

“My girlfriend and I have started a new series, we're watching The Blacklist. It's good. The main guy is called Reddington, he's a criminal and he's got to catch lots of criminals and bring them into the police as pat of the deal they've got. It's quite scary as well! It's on Amazon Prime.”

WHAT I'M LISTENING TO

“My favourite album at the minute is A Boogie's Hoodie SZN. I'm into Migos as well, they're a group of three from America and they're top class. Rom likes them, so do Jesse, Marcus and Shawy as well.”

WHAT I'M INSTAGRAMMING

“I'm never not watching football on Instagram. That's what I do when I'm scrolling through. Highlights of other players, highlights of games - Premier League games, Championship, Champions League, even other leagues like Serie A. I'm football mad!”

WHAT I'M YOUTUBING

“On YouTube, I watch a lot of Fornite. I watch Ninja, he’s really good. He’s a Fortnite player and he’s the best. We watch quite a bit of him because he’s unreal. It might sound a bit sad watching someone else play, but sometimes you’ll watch his best-ever game or something like that. I don’t really watch a lot on YouTube, I like to keep up to date with a guy who’s a race-car driver: Archie Hamilton. So, I watch him a bit, he puts different videos out and I like to keep to up to date with that.”

WHAT I'M BOARD GAMING

“I've been playing Cluedo and I’m the best! I’ve been playing a bit of Articulate, Black Jack and Uno as well. Everyone loves Uno.”

WHAT I'M WEARING

“Other than adidas, I like different designer brands. I like shopping at Selfridges, All Saints, Harrods and places like that.”

WHO I'M LAUGHING AT

“Jason Mamford is top class, but other than him, I like Kevin Bridges. It’s on my bucket list to go and see him live.”

WHICH SPORTSMAN IS INSPIRING ME

“Someone who has been at the top for so many years is Roger Federer. I like my tennis. I don’t really get much chance to play because it’s quite hard to play and there’s lots of twisting and turning, and you don’t want to get injured. I always watch Wimbledon, and the other major championships as well. I’ve never been but it’s certainly on the bucket list. Football-related I’d say Cristiano Ronaldo. He just keeps his standards so high every year and he’s always achieving new goals and new heights, and just keeping it going.”

WHERE I'M RELAXING

“The Hale Country Club is a place where I go quite a lot. It has a gym and there are some nice restaurants in there, and you can go in the pool outside. Especially after football, it’s nice to go there when you’re a little bit tired and just chill out, because sometimes just sitting at home can be a little bit long! Restaurant-wise, I like Victors in Hale, I like Piccolino. All the places in Hale are really nice.”

WHAT I'M READING

“I’ve just started reading the book by Ant Middleton, he’s the guy off ‘SAS: Who Dares Wins’, I really like those programmes.”
WHAT I'M SEARCHING

“Online, I'm just reading stuff like the papers and what's going on, even things like the weather. Also flicking through social media to see how my family are getting on in London and Scotland.”

How a 50-50 with Ibra changed it all for Lukaku

Romelu Lukaku has revealed how a 50/50 challenge with Zlatan Ibrahimovic in training taught him everything that he needed to know about the Swedish goalscoring legend.

Ibra, as he is affectionately known, called time on his Manchester United career one year ago today to start his American adventure with Major League Soccer outfit Los Angeles Galaxy.

That decision was partly inspired by the realisation that he could no longer perform, week in and week out, as he desired at Old Trafford, following the frustrating period of injury that blighted his second season as a Red.

Everybody is pleased see Zlatan playing so well in the USA and Lukaku is among those in the current United squad who are still benefiting from the wisdom that the giant centre-forward shared.

While answering questions submitted by fans on social media, Lukaku was asked what he learned from Ibra, and the Belgian’s mind wandered back to one particularly competitive training match.

“Everything I learned from Zlatan was great, from his stories that he told me when he was at Inter, AC Milan, Barcelona and even Ajax, to being on the field working with him, seeing how competitive he was,” explained Lukaku, in a video first published on Thursday afternoon.

“I remember one training session,” Lukaku continued. “Because we were both strikers, we were never on the same team and, at one point, there was a 50/50 challenge. He went full-on against me!

“That is when I knew this guy wants to compete and this guy wants to fight for his spot. That is why he changed me. It was an eye-opener. The guy had to fight to be in the position he is in.

“So, I learned just to focus, work hard and enjoy it as well. Because he is a guy who you can have a lot fun with as well and having his personality in the dressing room was good.”

The big man was an instant hit during his first season in MLS, beginning with a bang by scoring twice in the inaugural Los Angeles derby – one of which was an acrobatic strike that stunned the world.

He went on to score 22 goals in 27 appearances that campaign, earning a place in the coveted All-Star team that played a one-off exhibition match against his former club Juventus. Unfortunately, his efforts did not drive the Galaxy into the play-off, as they finished seventh in the Western Conference.

In the new season, Zlatan has made one appearance so far and scored in a 2-1 home win over Bastian Schweinsteiger's Chicago Fire.

Ole's positive mindset will overcome injury problems

Friday is usually press conference day in the world of Manchester United, but there will be no manager's media briefing today as the international break nears its halfway point.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may welcome a week away from the cameras, microphones and reporters at the Aon Training Complex, particularly as the questions he might have faced today would have focused on the injury problems that several members of the first-team squad have picked up this week.

In case you’re not up to date, it was confirmed last Sunday evening that Anthony Martial had withdrawn from France duty. On Monday, Luke Shaw pulled out of the England squad and two days later it was revealed that Nemanja Matic would not feature in either of Serbia’s matches.

A fourth injury problem was unfortunately reported on Thursday, when England manager Gareth Southgate declared Marcus Rashford would return to United after being deemed unfit for action.

Scott McTominay is also suffering with a stomach bug, which is why he was seen sprinting to the changing room after making a substitute appearance for Scotland against Kazakhstan last night.

As Ole has shown so magnificently since taking over as caretaker manager, it is important to remain upbeat and tackle all problems with a positive attitude.

What’s the point in moaning? Just get your head down, work hard and enjoy the challenge at hand.

That mantra has been repeatedly conveyed by Solskjaer and, speaking before the current international break, he offered this clear instruction to his players:

“Whatever you are doing, come back with a big smile and be ready!”

That is certainly what the popular club legend will do, with our return to Premier League action against Watford at Old Trafford next Saturday in mind.

While the break has not been kind to us so far, it’s vital to remember this two-week period is also providing lots of players with an invaluable rest, allowing them to recharge the batteries before the hectic season finale.

Regular defensive starters Ashley Young, Victor Lindelof and Chris Smalling are among that group, as well as combative midfielders Ander Herrera, Andreas Pereira and Fred.

In the forward positions, Juan Mata has taken some time out to recharge and Jesse Lingard, who did not report for England duty, is working hard on his fitness.

This time next week, when Solskjaer sits down in front of the media at the Aon Training Complex, he could be delivering good news on the fitness of his squad.

Make no mistake, Ole will have a positive outlook – and so should we.

Giggsy's advice for Ole against Barcelona

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has joked his old team-mate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should put himself on the bench for the upcoming Champions League tie against Barcelona at the Nou Camp.

We were paired with the Spanish league leaders in last Friday’s quarter-final draw and the first leg will be held at Old Trafford on 10 April, before the return fixture takes place in Spain six days later.

Twenty years have passed since Solskjaer scored what is arguably the most famous goal in Reds history – the late winner against Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final at the Nou Camp.

Ole’s return to Barcelona this season has a touch of fate about it and Giggs offered some amusing advice for his Norwegian friend, while speaking exclusively to us at the Aon Training Complex.

“It’s tough – I think most people wanted to stay away from Barcelona [in the draw],” Ryan told us during a lengthy conversation. “Ole, especially, has got good memories of the Nou Camp. I don’t know whether he’ll put himself on the bench that night. He might have to think about that!

“After beating PSG in the manner we did, with the spirit and character showed, I don’t think anybody will be looking forward to facing us either.”

Solskjaer’s United qualified for the Champions League quarter-finals with an incredible 3-1 away win against Paris Saint-Germain, who were heavily tipped to progress following a 2-0 victory at Old Trafford.

That success in France was particularly remarkable because the squad was missing 10 first-team players through injury, and influential midfielder Paul Pogba was also suspended for the tie.

“I think it’s up there as one of the greatest-ever performances, especially away from home in Europe,” Giggs explained to us. “Not many people fancied us with a full team, never mind with the injury problems we had and the suspension to Paul. So, to do that, in the manner we did, against a team full of quality, it has to rank as one of the greatest ever.”

Giggs: Youth is what the club was built on

Ryan Giggs granted MUTV an exclusive interview during his time with the Wales squad at the Aon Training Complex on Tuesday.

Our most-decorated player, and record appearance maker, explained why his philosophy is steeped in the best traditions of Manchester United, by providing young players with opportunities and discussed the impact the late Eric Harrison had on him.

Ryan is preparing his squad for games against Trinidad & Tobago and Slovakia and felt it was extremely beneficial to make the best use of the Reds' excellent facilities.

Welcome back to the Aon Training Complex, does it still feel like home to you?

“Yeah, it does. Obviously I spent a lot of time here, both as a player and then, towards the end, as a coach. To see so many familiar people is great. It’s great to be back. I am here quite a lot obviously because my son is here [training] every Tuesday and Thursday so it’s not as if I’m not here but, obviously, this is in a different capacity.”

I’m not sure if you noticed on your way in but your name is on the plaque here at the Jimmy Murphy Centre as a two-times winner of the Young Player of the Year…

“Yeah – it was a long time ago! No, especially with Wales, the link with the Jimmy Murphy Centre means it’s quite apt we’re here as well doing the press conference. I mean I’m really thankful to United for letting me use the facilities. It’s not often we play up north at Wrexham. We have a facility in north Wales which isn’t quite ready yet so I jumped at the chance, knowing both the facilities would be good and the excitement it would generate within the squad because training at the Aon Training Complex is something you don’t get to see every day.”

Is that particularly good for the young players in the squad?

“It is, you know. I’m trying to drive the professionalism and standards and, obviously here, you see that. It’s great for the pitches and beforehand with the pre-activations for the warm-up. Also we spend more time here afterwards as we’re not in a rush to get back to the hotel. We can have a coffee and chat and it’s been a really good experience for everybody, not just the young players.

Albert [Stuivenberg] and Tony [Strudwick] are back too – how valuable are they as backroom staff?

”All the staff are valuable. Tony and Albert worked here before so it’s good for them to come back as well. I think all the staff have enjoyed it, coming in and seeing the facilities and seeing some friendly faces. I knew we’d be looked after.“

We know [your son] Zach is here in the Academy – do you get to see Nicky Butt when you come over for his training sessions?

”His son is the same age as my son so, yeah, I see him all the time. Now and again, Nicky is one of my best mates, so I’ll come and I’ve done talks with the youth team. I’ll also come in and have a coffee and talk about stuff. Like I say, I’m here quite a bit.“

So you have contact with the Academy – we’re very proud we’re still getting players through into the first team…

”Yeah, of course. When you see that, and you’ve seen the game against PSG, and how we ended with the amount of young players who have come through. It’s fantastic to see. This is what the club is built on and I’m trying to do that as well with the Welsh national team by bringing young players through and giving them a chance. Very often, if you do give them a chance, they won’t let you down.“

Is that something you’ve always firmly believed in? When you were caretaker manager here, you gave some youngsters their head as well…

“It is – I recognise I got a chance at 17 and, if you go back to then, you can’t wait for that chance. Then, it’s up to you to take it. The next thing is to obviously stay in the team. I’m giving the opportunity but I don’t just throw young players in for the sake of it. If they are good enough, it doesn’t really matter what age they are. Also, it’s just giving a competitive edge with the more experienced and established players looking over their shoulder. It’s a really good balance. We have a great set of lads, the more experienced lads who have been there and done it and the young players coming through.”

You’ve said Gareth Bale is the ‘main man’ but does it take some of the pressure off him having the youngsters coming through?

“Well, I think Gareth puts himself under pressure because he’s under pressure all the time at Real Madrid. I know what it’s like playing at a big club. So he’s used to it. I recognise we have got an amazing player, one of the world’s best players, in the team but also, if he’s not there, like you say it’s taking a little bit of the pressure off with the talented players around him, especially in the forward areas.”

In terms of your managerial experience, obviously it was very sad that we lost Eric Harrison recently and you attended the funeral. Do you think some of his methods are instilled in you?

“Yeah, I mean obviously Eric was a big part of my education in football. He wanted you to work hard but also wanted you to express yourself. He wanted you to enjoy your football. I think a lot has been said about him being a hard taskmaster, which he was, but all his teams played good football – the United way and an attractive way. I try to instil that attacking philosophy as well.”

Do you need that hard edge as well with footballers, even today’s footballers?

“You do. It’s getting more and more difficult, I think, but that’s for everyone of course. You need standards and I touched on that before. I want players to have a certain standard to perform and that’s what Eric did with us. The coaches and managers you work under, you take little bits from everyone. Eric was a big part of that as Sir Alex [Ferguson] was as well.”

Alexis will hope for Barcelona reunion

Much has been made about Ole Gunnar Solskjaer returning to the Nou Camp, the scene of his greatest night as a Manchester United player, after his Reds were paired with Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-finals.

The draw also means Gerard Pique, the towering centre-back, will face his old team - he was in the Reds' Champions League-winning squad of 2008 before lifting the same trophy with Barca at our expense in the 2009 and 2011 finals and once more, against Juventus, in 2015.

Yet the tantalising tie has arguably even greater resonance for Alexis Sanchez, who will no doubt be busting a gut in a bid to be back from a knee injury ahead of schedule to take on his former club.

Solskjaer recently suggested he hoped the Chilean could return to action around the time of the Everton game in the Premier League, but the trip to Spain comes earlier that week, with the second leg taking place at the Nou Camp on Tuesday 16 April.

Barcelona beat a host of suitors to sign the South American in the summer of 2011 and he spent three seasons in La Liga.

Acquired by current Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, before going on to play under Tito Vilanova and Gerardo Martino, Alexis made 141 appearances for the Catalan club, the vast majority of them as a team-mate of Lionel Messi.

The Chilean scored 47 times for them and also supplied 35 assists as he was part of a vibrant attacking unit.

In his first year, he helped Barcelona win the UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup and the Copa del Rey; in the following campaign, 2012/13, they dominated in La Liga, winning the title with 100 points on the board. Alexis then notched an impressive 19 league goals in his final season at the club before joining Arsenal in the summer of 2014.

As for his Champions League stats with Barcelona, he played 24 games, scoring three times.

Even though it's now almost five years since he left the Nou Camp, Alexis was spotted attending a game there earlier this month, a 3-1 win over Rayo Vallecano, as the 30-year-old continues his rehabilitation from injury.

“It wasn’t easy to leave Barcelona,” he said in 2016. “I fulfilled a dream when I moved there – to play in Spain and for the champions – but very few players stay at the same club all their life. To leave is normal.

”I wanted a new project, a new experience. And with so many attacking players at Barca it was a good choice to go.“

Alexis has already come up against his ex-employers in the competition before, setting up a goal on his old patch.

In the last 16 of the Champions League in 2015/16, he was part of the Arsenal team beaten 2-0 at home by Barcelona before a 3-1 reverse at the Nou Camp. Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar all scored for the Catalan giants, with Mohamed Elneny netting for the visitors from an Alexis pass.

The United forward will be keen to get back to fitness soon in order to have an outside chance of playing at the great arena once again. After all, he has already scored against another of his former sides this season - Arsenal, on their home turf, in January.

The week ahead for United

The final international break of the season has arrived, however it doesn't mean life is any less quiet at Manchester United. Here is our weekly guide to bring you up to speed with what's around the corner over the next seven days...

MONDAY

United stars past and present are celebrating their birthday today with defender Diogo Dalot and former manager, and current MUTV pundit, Ron Atkinson turning 20 and 80 respectively.

Of course, reaction to Saturday's Emirates FA Cup game against Wolves will continue in The Paddy Crerand Show, a weekly dose of topical chat with the club legend at the usual time of 18:30 GMT on MUTV.

TUESDAY

Former star Ryan Giggs is at the Aon Training Complex with his Wales squad - we hope to hear from our most decorated player in familiar surroundings.

WEDNESDAY

The international games spark into life with Nemanja Matic and his Serbian compatriots travelling to Wolfsburg to take on Germany in a friendly. The kick-off is at 19:45 GMT and you can keep up-to-date with how he and his team-mates get on with their respective countries via our international Reds blog. Also, Angel Gomes will link up with the England Under-19s as they take part in their first game of the Elite Qualifying Round for European Championship against Czech Republic (kick-off 14:00 GMT).

Elsewhere, Wednesday marks three years since Marcus Rashford scored the winner in our victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Argentinian defender Marcos Rojo will celebrate his 29th birthday.

THURSDAY

Three more United players will link up with their international squads on Thursday. Scott McTominay and Scotland will take on Kazakhstan in the first of their Euro 2020 qualifiers (kick-off 15:00 GMT). The youngster has again been called up by Alex McLeish after a number of standout performances for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Reds in the league and Champions League.

Romelu Lukaku has received a call-up too, however it remains to be seen whether the Belgian will feature in their opening qualifier against Cyprus (19:45 GMT) after recently picking up a foot injury. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who is on loan at Sheffield United, has been selected for England Under-21s, who will play Poland at Bristol City's Ashton Gate (kick-off 19:45 GMT).

It is also a 'Throwback Thursday' for United fans as we cast our minds back to the famous Treble season and our 3-1 win over Everton. Three goals in 13 second-half minutes set the Reds on the way to victory with goals from Solskjaer, Gary Neville and David Beckham in a result that saw Alex Ferguson's side open up a four-point cushion at the top of the Premier League table.

FRIDAY

On Friday, it will be four years since an incredible brace from Juan Mata enabled United to get the better of Liverpool at Anfield. The match was also notable for the hosts' Steven Gerrard getting sent off for a stamp on Ander Herrera, a mere 38 seconds after the half-time interval.

Meanwhile, Antonio Valencia will travel with Ecuador to Florida to take on USA in a friendly (kick-off at 00:00 GMT), while, closer to home, Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw have been called up to Gareth Southgate's England squad as they take on Czech Republic in a Euro 2020 qualifier at Wembley Stadium (kick-off 19:45 GMT).

SATURDAY

A further three Reds could feature for their respective nations on Saturday. World Cup-winner Paul Pogba will be in action for France as Les Bleus head east to take on Moldova in a Euro 2020 qualifier (kick-off 19:45 GMT) while Eric Bailly could feature for Ivory Coast as they host Rwanda in their final AFCON qualifier (17:00 GMT). David De Gea has been called up to the Spain squad who will meet Norway in their qualifier (19:45 GMT).

Saturday will also see former Reds keeper, Raimond van der Gouw, celebrate his 55th birthday. The Dutchman made 37 league appearances for the club between 1996 and 2001.

SUNDAY

The weekend concludes with Lukaku's Belgium travelling to Cyprus in their second Euro 2020 qualifier while McTominay and Scotland are in action against European minnows, San Marino - both games kick off at 19:45 GMT.

It may be the international break for the men, but United's Women are back in FA Women's Championship competition, with a trip to London to face third-placed Charlton (kick-off 14:00 GMT). This is a rescheduled fixture after the original game was abandoned, following an injury to Addicks player Charlotte Kerr.

'I hope Messi won't be as inspired next month'

Hi everyone. For the first time in weeks, I have to write after being knocked out of something. It hurts to say that Saturday’s defeat against Wolves was deserved, as it saw us head out of the FA Cup and you all know the hopes that we had riding on this competition, especially after progressing through some really tough knock-out ties.

We fought until the very last minute but they were better than us and we have to accept it. These are the kinds of situations that put your personality and the spirit in the dressing room to the test, which is something we’ve talked about when we have been winning. I’m sure that we are going to leave this defeat behind and head towards the most important part of the season with our batteries fully charged after the international break. The time is approaching.
It is a shame, as the FA Cup game saw my return from the injury that I suffered against Liverpool, and I was feeling good on the physical side of things. I featured in the later stages and felt fine, although what would have made me feel even better would have been mounting a comeback up on the scoreboard too.

On the other hand, on Friday the draw for the Champions League took place, where we have been matched up with Barcelona. Obviously, it is a huge challenge, but this is what this club is made of, overcoming adversity, demanding a lot from yourself and wanting to win.
As Barça are one of the toughest opponents in world football, we will have to put all of that into practice. For the boss, returning to Camp Nou will be very special, as well as for everyone who was there on that special night in May 1999.

This tie will ask us to put in a huge effort, but we are ready to give our best to try to go through.

In La Liga, Barça beat Real Betis, thanks to another masterclass from Lionel Messi [the Argentinian scored a hat-trick in a 4-1 away victory for the leaders and received a standing ovation from the home supporters], and we will have to hope that he isn’t so inspired when we play against them.

Hugs, Juan.

You can read my full blog post here on my website, JuanMata8.com.

Alexis wants to show his passion for United

Alexis Sanchez has a burning desire to succeed at Old Trafford and that shines through in abundance, during an illuminating interview for the April 2019 edition of Inside United magazine.

Our exclusive conversation with the passionate Chilean took place just before he was injured against Southampton and that blow will have hit the no.7 hard. But his determination to reward our supporters with match-winning performances and trophy successes still burns brightly.

“Obviously, I want to make the United fans really happy,” Alexis explains during his colourful interview with Inside United. “I want to score goals. I want to bring them joy. I want to win silverware.

“When we lost last year’s FA Cup final to Chelsea, I was not happy. Not happy at all. In fact, I was sad because I just wanted to make our wonderful supporters happy. I saw the fans who had come to pack out Wembley Stadium. They were all around me – all red. I liked it. Wembley was all red.”

Expanding on his wish to win trophies for our supporters, Alexis continues: “The goal there [at Wembley] against Tottenham comes to mind. It was such a great moment because the United fans were right on top of us and it was a lovely moment to be able to celebrate along with them.

“When I was younger, I liked United. I swear. As a small child, I liked United. I really liked them. And I want to show this and bring the people joy because, obviously, I want to win.”

In a pledge to the United fans, he says: “I want to keep showing my love for football. I know what I can do. I have belief in my ability. United are such an important club, not only in England but on a global level, and I would love to help bring a trophy to the supporters.”

So where does his passion and hunger for playing football come from? Specifically, it stems from the streets of Tocopilla in Chile and his upbringing there had a massive impact on his personality.

“It’s a small city,” Alexis explains when telling his story. “Listen, I love football. I love football! My passion is football. My other passions are my dogs and my family. They mean everything to me. Everything. Growing up, I always wanted to be a professional footballer – but in Chile. Always in Chile. I never dreamed of coming here to Europe. Never.

“It was always the Chilean league for me but my footballing journey continued and I played in Argentina and Italy. After that, I was like: ‘Wow, this is football! I love football! I kept on playing and I liked it even more. I liked different players, exceptional players who were out of the ordinary and like nothing I’d seen before.

“Back home in Chile, there was not as much technology as there is in Europe. You’d only see the Chilean TV channels showing the local football. You would never see clubs like Real Madrid or Barcelona competing in La Liga. I didn’t know about them at that moment. That was my story then. I played at Cobreloa, River Plate, Udinese, Barcelona, Arsenal and now it’s Manchester United.”

Matic: We'll be back after the break

Nemanja Matic is confident Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can reaffix the wheels on the Reds' bandwagon, after two successive defeats put the brakes on the momentum of the last three months.

Saturday night’s Emirates FA Cup quarter-final reverse at Wolves has cost United the chance of a domestic trophy.

It came on the back of the 2-0 loss at Arsenal in the Premier League that damaged the Reds' bid for a top-four place and with the international break now beginning, United will have to wait until Watford visit Old Trafford on 30 March for a chance to make amends.

However, Matic is convinced Solskjaer will restore the winning habit that he’d built up with 14 victories in 17 games prior to the recent blip; the Serbian knows the Reds cannot afford to allow the season to falter in the final two months.

“We will analyse this game to see where we made mistakes and see what we can do better,” said Nemanja after the match at Molineux.

“I am sure the manager will turn this situation around and we will do better. I want Ole to stay. He is a great manager, very positive.

“After the international break we will see. The first game back after a break is always difficult, especially for a team who has so many players away in the national teams. Almost everybody at United is on duty.

“We spoke after the game against Wolves and said we have to be focused for the next one and stick together and get into the top four which is the main target for us.

“We have to give our best now to reach the top four. We cannot let it go like this.

“We are not happy with the game [against Wolves]. We will analyse everything. There is a lot to play for. We have eight games to play in the Premier League and we are fighting for the top four. We have the Champions League as well.

“We will see what we are able to do and how much quality we have. We have to learn from this type of game.

“Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham will give their best to be in the top four. Everybody knows that,” he added, speaking on the eve of Chelsea's surprise 2-0 loss at Everton.

“If you see that two months ago we were 11 points behind Chelsea, then now we are in a much better position [in the Premier League table]. We have eight finals to play for us so we have to learn from this defeat.”

While Solskjaer described the 2-0 loss at Molineux as the worst performance of his time as caretaker boss since taking over in December, Matic saw a slightly different view from his vantage point on the pitch.

“I don’t think that we played bad but we have to be more clinical in the last third,” he said.

“Wolves let us have possession in the first half, let us have the ball but they showed they are very dangerous on the counter attack and they scored the second goal like that.

“We are sad we are out of the FA Cup, we gave everything but they were the better side and deserved to win. We have lost the last two games away to Arsenal and Wolves. I am not making an excuses but we have lost to two good sides.”

Solskjaer's message to the players after Wolves loss

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has delivered a clear message to his Manchester United players ahead of the international break, instructing them all to feel recharged, positive and focused when they return.

The Reds suffered a disappointing blow on Saturday evening by losing 2-1 to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Emirates FA Cup quarter-final at Molineux.

That result followed the similarly frustrating Premier League defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium the previous weekend.

The international break is now upon us and, when asked if the two-week period will feel longer than usual, Solskjaer agreed and proceeded to lay down a challenge to all members of the squad.

“It is happening so we cannot do anything about it,” Ole told us.

“To the players who go away with international teams, go and enjoy, go and play as well as you can.

“Some of them have been called back into a squad, maybe that gives them a boost, but we just need to come back recharged.

“Whatever you are doing, if you have days off, or play with the national team, come back with a big smile, loads of energy and be ready for the league and Champions League.”

United will return to action on Saturday 30 March with an important Premier League match against Watford at Old Trafford, with a victory clearly needed in the fight to finish in the top four.

That home match is followed by another trip to Wolves, on the evening of Tuesday 2 April, before European giants Barcelona visit on Wednesday 10 April for a highly-anticipated Champions League quarter-final first leg.

In the post-match press conference on Saturday, Solskjaer was quick to reassure supporters that the players will peak at this crucial time in the campaign.

“We’re ready to go again after the internationals,” he told reporters. “We’ve got so much to play for. Manchester United, in April and May, we always find our form.

“We can’t wait for the challenge. We’ve got big nights like Barcelona to come and so many highlights to look forward to. The players? Don’t worry about their attitude. When they come back again, we’ll give it a good go.”

Solskjaer’s verdict on Wolves defeat

Manchester United caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said he felt Wolves deserved their 2-1 win against Manchester United on Saturday.

Speaking to MUTV and in his press conference after the Emirates FA Cup quarter-final showdown, the boss delivered a kind word on the performance of Sergio Romero and had a message for the squad ahead of the international break.

Here are Ole’s thoughts after the game…

WOLVES DESERVED TO WIN

“It was very disappointing. All in all, they deserved to win because they had the better of the chances. Yes, we dominated possession but we never really felt in control and I never really felt that we put them under pressure. It seemed like they were happy with how the game went in the first half and then, of course, it’s disappointing giving easy goals away. What was missing? Quite a lot actually. Today was the poorest performance we’ve had. Last week [at Arsenal], we were happy with the performance but, today, we didn’t have the urgency or the quality on the ball. I felt, without the ball, we did okay in the first half but the tempo on the ball wasn’t high enough. So we played into their hands really.“

LACK OF ATTACKING INTENT

“That’s football for you. It’s just a slight off on the quality and the tempo of the passing. I thought that was maybe the biggest letdown and the urgency, because we are better when we play quickly, we play forward, we run forward. A couple of times when Paul [Pogba] broke free in the first half and drove at them, [there were] two yellow cards [for Wolves]. A couple of times we played Rashy [Marcus Rashford] through the middle, in behind the centre-backs. Then if we had the possession, [it was] too comfortable - I think we played it too comfortable.”

SERGIO'S SAVES

“Sergio made some fantastic saves - he’s played really well again. But that’s disappointing because they had the better of the chances. They deserved the win. Sergio kept us in the game with a fantastic performance from him again but we never put their keeper under pressure.”

DROP OFF IN QUALITY

“Well, I think it’s something natural. You cannot perform to the top of your levels every single time. This is the poorest we’ve played but it was still against a good team. They’ve done really well against the top teams this season and don’t take anything away from their performance, even though we under performed.”

LINDELOF'S OVERTURNED RED CARD

“I didn’t see it. I’ve got to be honest. I just looked over to get Juan [Mata] ready to come on. So I didn’t see it. But the VAR discussion tonight – there could be loads of discussions about that one, both in ours with maybe a penalty and the red card, and the other games. I just don’t know, though, I haven’t seen it.”

MESSAGE TO THE PLAYERS

“[The international break] is happening so we can’t do anything about it. The players who go away with international teams, go and enjoy it, go and play as well as you can. Some of them are called back into a squad, maybe that will give them a boost. We just need to come back recharged. Whether you have days off or you play with your national team, come back with a big smile, loads of energy and be ready for the league and Champions League. We’re in a great position in the league, we’ve got the Champions League but we’re very disappointed tonight we’re not in the semis.”

FA Cup: Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 Man. United 0

Manchester United’s dream of FA Cup glory for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer were shattered at Molineux against Wolves as the Reds slipped to a second successive defeat.

With Wembley on offer in the semi finals, United came up short as Wolves took command of the quarter-final tie in the second half with goals from Raul Jimenez and Diogo Jota. A goal in added-on time from Marcus Rashford wasn’t enough for the Reds to rescue the match and continue the hopes for domestic silverware.

Molineux’s pre-match show organisers certainly managed to ramp up an atmosphere worthy of the occasion. The 4,500 travelling Reds did their bit to make their voices heard, with the expected raucous renditions of ‘Ole’s at the Wheel.’

It was stirring stuff and a glitzy opening ceremony that was going to take some matching on the pitch. But it was a ponderous opening as United looked to get the Premier League defeat at Arsenal out of our system and Wolves were tentative as a place at Wembley beckoned.

The Reds dominated the start but couldn’t find a touch of killer magic to penetrate a gold backline. There was nothing for either set of fans to truly get their teeth into and United’s followers could hardly get excited about a couple of tame efforts from Paul Pogba and Rashford.

Wolves got their attacking game into forward drive after 28 minutes when Joao Moutinho and then Jota had chances but neither was serious trouble for Sergio Romero in United’s goal.

Diogo Dalot and a pack of Reds in the Wolves penalty area appealed for a handball offence in the box against Jonny Otto. With VAR in operation, referee Martin Atkinson waited briefly for instructions in his ear before awarding the visitors a corner, much to the annoyance of Dalot and his colleagues.

Wolves' answer was a swift counter attack in the 42nd minute that almost brought the first goal of the game. The move ended with Jota bearing down on Romero in a dangerous one-versus-one. But United’s Argentine FA Cup keeper stood firm to keep the match goalless by pulling off a tremendous save.

It had been a pretty subdued half from United and Wolves took advantage and grabbed the initiative early in the second period.

The home side won a corner, which was delivered by Moutinho to the head of Jimenez. It needed a world-class tip over from Romero to keep it out.

It was a superb save and cemented the South American’s tag as the best deputy keeper in English football. It was a good job yet again he’s top class when, minutes later, he reacted to shovel a Moutinho long-range effort over the bar as Molineux sensed the hosts were on the brink of a breakthrough.

As United struggled to find any rhythm, Nuno Espirito Santos’s side became increasingly confident. With the pressure increasing on the Reds, Jimenez came up with the opening goal. There were plenty of red shirts in the box but after initially blocking Jimenez, the striker was able to turn and squeeze a goal home in the 70th minute.

United were unable to unearth a spirited response to the setback and, six minutes later, we found ourselves 2-0 down.

The Reds had launched an attack but Wolves broke free and it became a race between Jota and Luke Shaw. The Portuguese outmuscled the left-back, and his footwork kept him in command of the situation. He then coolly drilled past Romero.

The nightmare almost became worse for United in the 81st minute as Wolves threatened to race away for a third. Goalscorer Jota sped down the right flank and Victor Lindelof stormed across to cover but slid dangerously into the rescuing tackle and floored the Wolves man.

Referee Atkinson initially showed the Swede a red card but VAR overturned his decision, reducing the offence to a booking, and United remained with 10 men on the pitch, much to the fury of the Molineux crowd.

Juan Mata and Scott McTominay came on in a late bid by Solskjaer to find a late answer to the dire situation, adding to the earlier addition of Andreas Pereira.

United did snatch a consolation when Rashford turned to convert a cross by Shaw but a club noted for so many delirious and improbable comebacks had left it far too late to add to our catalogue of remarkable finales.

United: Romero, Dalot, Smalling, Lindelof, Shaw, Matic (Mata 86), Herrera (A. Pereira 70), Pogba (c), Lingard, Martial, Rashford.

Subs not used: De Gea, Jones, Rojo, Fred.

Scorers: Rashford 90

Bookings: Matic, Rashford, Herrera, Lindelof.

Wolves: Ruddy, Doherty, Neves, Jimenez (Costa 90), Bolt, Coady (c), Jota (Traore 87), Otto, Moutinho, Saiss, Dendoncker.

Subs not used: Norris, Bennett, Cavaleiro, Gibbs-White, Vinagre.

Scorers: Jimenez 70, Jota 76

Bookings: Boly, Neves, Coady.

Attendance: 31,004

Ole explains line-up to face Wolves

Manchester United caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made four changes to his side to take on Wolves, following last week’s 2-0 defeat to Arsenal.

For our Emirates FA Cup quarter-final clash, the boss has welcomed Ander Herrera and Jesse Lingard back, as they have not played since last month’s meeting with Liverpool.

The pair were both withdrawn with injuries that afternoon which have forced them to miss the last four outings.

Ole has also selected Anthony Martial from the off at Molineux. The French forward returned to the side last weekend, but starts for the first time since 12 February.

Between the sticks, the Reds have opted with Sergio Romero again in the cup, in place of David De Gea. The Argentinian keeper has only conceded once in the three previous FA Cup games this campaign and will be hoping to keep a clean sheet again in the Black Country.

However, one man who has failed to make the trip to Wolves is Romelu Lukaku. Ole revealed in Friday’s press conference that the striker was struggling with a foot problem, and the issue has kept him out of the game.

Another to miss out is Ashley Young, with the full-back unavailable though suspension after he picked a second yellow card in the FA Cup during the fifth-round win against Chelsea.

With Young missing, Ole has handed Paul Pogba the captain’s armband for this first time since taking charge, while Diogo Dalot plays at right-back.

“We are looking better, of course,” Solskjaer told MUTV. “Rom had a foot injury so we miss him today but, hopefully, Anthony and Jesse, and Ander as well, will be okay.

”Jesse gives us that extra bit of change of tempo in the last third, with loads of energy and pace and good combinations. I hope they find themselves - Jesse, Anthony, Rashy [Marcus Rashford] and Paul [Pogba] - and can get some combinations together.

“There are no worries over Ander and Jesse,” Ole added on BBC One. “They’ve had a good week now. I thought about risking them last week against Arsenal but it was a bit too early. Now they should be ready.”

Wolves: Ruddy; Saiss, Coady, Boly; Doherty, Dendocker, Neves, Otto; Moutinho, Jimenez, Jota.

Subs: Norris, Bennett, Cavaleiro, Costa, Gibbs-White, Vinagre, Adama.

United: Romero; Dalot, Lindelof, Samlling, Shaw; Herrera, Matic, Pogba (c); Lingard, Rashford, Martial.

Subs: De Gea, Jones, Rojo, Andreas, Fred, McTominay, Mata.