Will Bruno Fernandes make his debut against Wolves?

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was asked if potential new signing Bruno Fernandes could make his debut at the weekend against Wolves, providing the move goes ahead as hoped.

The Sporting Lisbon captain is set to discuss personal terms and have a medical in Manchester after the two clubs confirmed a deal has been agreed on Wednesday.

Although there is still work to be done to finalise the transfer, the question was posed to the boss during his press conference, following the 1-0 win at Manchester City in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.

The Blues won 3-2 on aggregate to reach the final, where they will face Aston Villa.

With goalscorer Nemanja Matic now suspended for our fifth meeting with Wolves of the season, after being sent off at the Etihad Stadium, it led to a question about whether Fernandes will replace him in the XI.

"“Let’s get the contract signed and medical done but the boy is fit and ready to play, I would presume,”" said Ole. "“Let’s see if we can get it done tomorrow.”"

When also quizzed on whether he would like to add another striker before the deadline, he replied: "“I’m not sure. I know we need more goals. "

”I know, if we get Bruno over the line, he’ll score and create. Let’s talk on Friday [the last day of the transfer window]."“"

If he completes the move, midfielder Fernandes would be eligible to play in the Europa League, despite already representing Sporting Lisbon in the competition.

Following the match with Wolves, a 17:30 GMT kick-off at Old Trafford on Saturday, there is our first-ever winter break, before we resume action at Chelsea on 17 February.

The Premier League match at Everton on Sunday can also now be confirmed as taking place on 1 March at 14:00 GMT.

Maguire: We will definitely take the positives

Harry Maguire admits the Manchester United dressing room was flat on Wednesday night, after exiting the Carabao Cup at the semi-final stage, but the club captain is adamant there are positives to take from a second away win over Manchester City this season.

After losing 3-1 in this month’s first leg at Old Trafford, the Reds visited the Etihad Stadium knowing that only a three-goal victory in normal time would secure progression to the final at Wembley.

The comeback was seemingly on when Nemanja Matic put United 1-0 up with a tidy first-half finish, before a harsh-looking red card for the Serbian, after the break, hampered the team’s ability to conjure a priceless second goal that would have forced a dramatic penalty shoot-out.

In the end, United could only win by one goal on the night and the Carabao Cup campaign has unfortunately come to an end, yet Maguire remains upbeat in his assessment of the night.

“We will definitely take the positives from the game,” says the skipper.

“The dressing room, at the moment, is disappointed and a bit flat. It is a bit strange because we have won the game and done well on the night, but the first 45 minutes at Old Trafford has cost us the tie. We were arguably the better side in the second half at Old Trafford and then we have come to the Etihad. We knew it was an uphill task, we gave ourselves every chance in the second half but it just wasn't to be.

“We knew that the first goal was crucial,” continues Maguire.

“We felt that, if we got the first goal, then we would go on to win the tie. That wasn't to be. We felt like the last 15 to 20 minutes, we could have put them under a lot of pressure, it would have been a nervous stadium and maybe we could have got something, or created more chances than we did. We obviously had the free-kick on the edge of the box, which was a great chance. We huffed and puffed, we worked tirelessly and we won the game on the night, but, ultimately, the first 45 minutes at Old Trafford has cost us the tie.”

On the subject of Matic’s red card, received for two bookable offences, Maguire admits the loss of a key midfielder had an impact on the team’s attack – yet there is no fault at Nemanja’s door.

“It is tough to create chances here,” says Harry.

“They are a good side and they have proved it over the last five years. At half-time we were in the perfect position. We wanted to stay in the game until the last 20 minutes, when we knew we could create momentum and pressure, like we did at Anfield [against Liverpool]. It is hard enough to get the ball off them when it is 11 v 11. We obviously lose Nemanja, who was excellent on the night, so there is no blame on him, but it was difficult when we went down to 10.”

United return to action on Saturday with an important Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford and Maguire feels the squad must come out fighting, before enjoying a two-week winter break that will recharge the batteries.

"“Yeah, it is really important,”" he states. "“We have one last big push before the lads can put their feet up and have a little rest, which I do feel we need.

"“I think you saw in the second half that we looked a bit tired in our pressing. It is one last big push, we need a big result against Wolves, we need to come out fighting and put on a good performance.”""

Ole issues a goal challenge to his players

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said Manchester United will continue to improve if we can find different ways to find the back of the net.

The Reds have scored several impressive strikes in recent weeks - including Nemanja Matic’s effort against Manchester City on Wednesday night - but the boss feels adding more scrappy goals to our game are needed to increase our scoring tally.

Despite beating City 1-0 in the second leg of our Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, one more goal at the Etihad would have ensured the two-legged tie ended 3-3 on aggregate and forced a penalty shoot-out.

However, United failed to find that crucial goal and were eliminated from the competition - something Ole believes United can work on in the coming months.

“I’ve spoken about this so many times, we know it’s going to be inconsistent this season and while we’re building,” the boss said after Wednesday’s derby win.

“But it shows how good we can be and how good these boys can become. Yes, we want to eradicate those defeats but I think everyone watching us knows what we’re trying to do and we’ll get there.

“We’ll add players and the culture here, with the character and attitude, is there. Today, the quality wasn’t great, sometimes that happens and it might happen again. We need more goalscorers and more goals, that’s a definite.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Ole expanded on how our strikers’ movements can improve, saying:

“I need someone who wants to break their nose to score a goal or a toe.

“It doesn’t have to be about the nice goals. I’m challenging them and I need to challenge them more because we can’t just score nice goals.

“Today, we pegged them back at times and played them deep but we couldn’t create those chances and those moments. We’re going to get there, no doubt, because these players want to learn and have improved so much.”

Solskjaer is convinced he will change the mindset of his players to ensure they are always as hungry to hit the back of the net as he was in his playing days.

"“I’ll never accept players not wanting to score goals and easy goals,”" he added. "“They’re easy goals when you make the right movements and stay in the box. So I’m going to work with them and we’re going to work and work until we get it done."

Ole's verdict on the Manchester derby

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted to having mixed emotions after a 1-0 away win at Manchester City proved insufficient in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.

The Reds triumphed on the night, with Nemanja Matic scoring the goal, but the Serbian was sent off in the second half, to leave the 10 men up struggling to push for the all-important second goal.

Consequently, the home side held out for a 3-2 aggregate victory to set up a final date with Aston Villa at Wembley Stadium.

Speaking to Sky Sports, MUTV and in his post-match press conference, Ole had this to say...

RED CARD WAS HARSH

"“Of course, it’s hard to come here and score with 11, never mind 10. It’s never a sending off. It’s ironic, for me, that he gets a yellow card on his first foul and then nearly for his second - which wasn’t even a foul. And, yeah, the last one is a yellow card. But how many times did they foul us? How many times was Dan James fouled and in the first half, Jesse [Lingard]? For me, that’s the first question and it shouldn’t be like this because I’m so proud of these players. They’ve beaten City twice in six weeks at their place. They’ve come, so far, these boys, and they’ve given us absolutely everything.”"

THEY GAVE THEIR ALL

"“These boys have come a long way. They’ve given absolutely everything. They’ve developed - I think, in the first half, even though we didn’t create too many clear-cut chances, we pressed them back and had spells where we were attacking and we had spells where they were defending deep, which pleased me.”"

ARE YOU MISSING RASHFORD?

"“Of course, we’re missing Marcus, Paul [Pogba], Scott [McTominay], we’re missing big players and we came here and beat them again. I’m so proud of how far they’ve come these boys and they’ve just got to realise that themselves. They need to keep carrying on with this attitude and character and defend as well as we did and of course we have the best goalkeeper in world when he’s in the form; he kept us in the game. It’s a strange feeling going out, but still being so proud of the players.”"

WHO IMPRESSED THE BOSS?

"“David [De Gea] shows, again, when he's the best keeper in the world. I think the back four, with Harry [Maguire] and Victor [Lindelof], were excellent. Young Brandon [Williams] has been unbelievable again. And Nemanja was the Man of the Match for me.”"
ONE BIG PUSH FOR SATURDAY

"“The pressure we built was good. You know, these boys are tired; they are down on their knees. We're squeezing absolutely everything out of them, and they've been absolutely brilliant again. We know everything about Wolves; they know everything about us. So we don't need too much time on the pitch, we just need treatment and recovery and to get going again.”"

De Gea wins Man-of-the-Match poll

David De Gea was voted Man of the Match after Manchester United’s 1-0 victory over Manchester City on Wednesday night.
While it was a superb away victory for the Reds, the 3-1 loss to our rivals in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final clash meant we were eliminated from the competition, 3-2 on aggregate.

However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men retained a chance of progressing to the Wembley final in March, thanks, in part, to the excellence of De Gea.

The Spaniard made several superb saves at the Etihad and twice denied Sergio Aguero in the first period with full-length stops, while he also was forced to come flying off his line just before the break to steal the ball away from the feet of City’s no.10, who was bearing down on goal.

On top of this, David reacted superbly to repel Riyad Mahrez’s fierce drive after just eight minutes. Our no.1 again demonstrated his razor-sharp reactions and made the instinctive stop after the ball flicked off a United defender en route to goal.

His outstanding display meant City failed to score for just the second time this season - the other coming against Wolverhampton Wanderers in early October.

Therefore, it was no surprise David was voted Man of the Match by our Official App users, even though Ole felt Nemanja Matic was his star man.

MAN-OF-THE-MATCH RESULT

David De Gea - 67%

Harry Maguire - 18%

Brandon Williams 15%

Boss explains why Fred took our late free-kick

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has explained why Fred took a late free-kick at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, with Manchester United needing one more goal to force a Carabao Cup semi-final penalty shoot-out.

The Reds were 1-0 up against rivals Manchester City on the night, 3-2 down on aggregate, and chasing a late goalscoring opportunity when, with time running out, Harry Maguire was blatantly fouled by Nicolas Otamendi on the edge of the Blues’ box.

Placed centrally around 20 yards from goal, the free-kick looked like it was perfect for substitute Juan Mata, but the Spaniard, a set-piece expert, eventually left it for Fred and the Brazilian struck the wall with his effort.

United went on to win the game, thanks to Nemanja Matic’s first-half goal and a battling performance, but unfortunately suffered a 3-2 aggregate defeat that means our Carabao Cup campaign is now over.

Speaking after the match at the Etihad Stadium, during his press conference with the media, Solskjaer was asked to provide an insight into the late free-kick and how its taker was decided.

"“Juan is the best one when he feels like it,”" admitted the manager to journalists. "“But they practiced yesterday and Juan told me that Fred was unbelievable in training.

"“He scored six or seven on the bounce apparently, and they both felt this was his moment. That was the decision they made there and then. Probably the right decision, but it didn’t work out well.”""

Carabao Cup: Man. City 0 Man. United 1 (Man. C won 3-2 on aggregate)

Manchester United bowed out of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night, but the 10-man Reds put on a brave fight at the Etihad Stadium with a 1-0 victory over Manchester City.

A fine first-half strike from Nemanja Matic, who was later sent off for two bookable offences, gave the Reds hope in the tie, as did some superb goalkeeping from David De Gea, who kept out a host of chances for the Blues in the opening half, but Pep Guardiola's men held on for the 3-2 aggregate victory and it's our local rivals who now progress to meet Aston Villa at Wembley.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made four changes to the side that overcame Tranmere in the FA Cup as the Reds looked to overturn a 3-1 deficit from the first leg. In came De Gea, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Brandon Williams and Fred, in place of Sergio Romero, Diogo Dalot, Phil Jones and Andreas Pereira, who were all named on the bench as United again set up with a back three. City made five changes from the side that brushed Fulham aside in the FA Cup with Sergio Aguero, Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling, Rodri and Kyle Walker returning to the starting line-up.

Just as City had dominated the opening half of the first leg, the Blues also got out of the blocks at top speed at the Etihad Stadium. But, in De Gea, City found a goalkeeper in inspired form.

An Ilkay Gundogan floated pass found Sergio Aguero in the box, on seven minutes, and his diving header was brilliantly tipped away by our Spanish stopper. Seconds later, De Gea was there again, this time saving a deflected shot by Riyad Mahrez superbly with his foot.

The hosts called for a penalty, minutes later, when Raheem Sterling went down under a challenge from Harry Maguire but, rightly, nothing was given, and rightly so, as replays showed both players had fallen over in tandem.

De Gea was at it again, on 17 minutes, when he threw a hand at Aguero’s angled shot after a neat one-two with Sterling. The England international found himself through on goal on the half-hour mark but Maguire got a foot in brilliantly to divert the ball out of play.

Up to that point, bar the odd positive burst forward from the Reds, it had been all City, but it was the Reds who made the first-half breakthrough on 35 minutes. A Fred free-kick from the left was only half cleared and the loose ball dropped to Matic who smashed it home superbly, low into the corner, to ensure it was game-on.

Before the break, City had a goal from Sterling correctly chalked off for offside, before De Gea raced out of his area to divert a short Victor Lindelof backpass away from danger in the nick of time, as Aguero looked to pounce.

Daniel James was introduced at the start of the second half and it was a free-kick he earned on 49 minutes which almost led to a second goal for the Reds. Unfortunately, Maguire was unable to keep his header down, to add to his maiden United goal at Tranmere last weekend, when he rose to meet Fred’s right-wing cross.

United maintained the pressing but it was the hosts who had the next opening. Sterling powered forward into the box and skipped past the on-rushing De Gea as well as a couple of defenders, but, with the goal gaping, he blasted over.

Not long after, Martial did the same from a tight angle before the action continued at the other end as City looked to find an equaliser on the night.

Kyle Walker stung the palms of De Gea with a thunderous 25-yard shot, before Maguire lost possession in the box and the ball dropped to City substitute David Silva who had just De Gea to beat, but he opted to pass to Gundogan allowing Maguire to atone for his error.

You couldn’t take your eyes off the action and, on 76 minutes, there was another twist as Matic received his marching orders for a second yellow card after a trip on Gundogan.

Another City goal was wiped off before the end for offside against Aguero, who clipped clinically beyond De Gea, before Fred fired a free-kick into the wall from a hugely promising position, when Maguire had been clattered by Nicolas Otamendi. Those were the last of the chances for either side as the Reds ran out winners on the night, but, sadly, not in the tie.

TEAM LINE-UPS

City: Bravo, Walker, Rodri, Otamendi, Cancelo, Gundogan, Mahrez (D Silva 67), De Bruyne (c) (Stones 90), Bernardo, Sterling, Aguero (G Jesus 90).

Subs not used: Ederson, Zinchenko, Foden, Garcia.

Booked: Rodri, Otamendi.

United: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Maguire (c), Shaw (Mata 79), Williams; Fred, Matic, Lingard (Andreas 65); Greenwood (James 46), Martial.

Subs not used: Romero, Bailly, Dalot, Jones.

Goal: Matic 35

Booked: Matic, Wan-Bissaka.

Sent off: Matic

Bailly thankful for United's show of faith

Eric Bailly is determined to repay Manchester United's faith in his abilities after extending his contract at the club.

The 25-year-old has returned from a knee operation and was an unused substitute for the games against Liverpool, Burnley and Tranmere Rovers.

Eric also had a run-out in the Under-23s against Newcastle United recently and is looking forward to showing his best form again.

"“Through all the tough times I've had, the club has always shown a lot of faith in me,”" he told MUTV. "“And, as part of that show of confidence, they have given me this contract extension.

"“So I need to be thankful for the confidence that they have shown in me, thankful and ready to give my best when I return to the team, to show them that I am completely behind the team, and, hopefully, to go on to lift some silverware in the future.

"“There are still a lot of matches to be played. We're still in all the different cups - the FA Cup, League Cup and the Europa League, as well as continuing to work in the Premier League. We're going to keep on it in training and stay united as a team, right through to the end of the season.”"""

Bailly feels he is fit to play, although he was not risked on Tranmere's difficult pitch at the weekend, and he could be involved in the Manchester derby tonight, in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.

"“I've always remained motivated, equally at my best, as well as in my worst moments of injury,”" he added. "“I had some difficult times last year but, once those times have passed, they are the past, and it's time to make the most of these opportunities now presenting themselves. "

"“I'm fit and well, I'm back training with the team, building confidence for my return. This is going to be a very important year."

"“Given those conditions [at Tranmere], it wouldn't have been the right pitch for a player returning from a long-term injury to start his returning match on such a surface. "

"“But I was happy to be with the team, to see them win the game, and that's my focus, to prepare for the day when I'm back playing with them.”"

The Ivory Coast international was unlucky not to score in his comeback game for the Under-23s, with an acrobatic overhead kick, and he hopes to follow fellow defenders Harry Maguire and Diogo Dalot's lead by finding the net in the first team again soon.

"“Well, that was just one moment of the match, a detail,”" he said. "“But the most important thing was to finish the [Newcastle] match in full fitness, and that was my focus."

"“Harry and Diogo's goals will also help by building up confidence among the defenders, as well as the whole team, but that will also be a big help to me in reaching my goal of returning.”"

City v United: Solskjaer's press conference in full

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer held a press conference this morning to preview Manchester United’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

The manager began the media briefing by discussing the balance of the tie, typically expressing confidence that his squad can stage a spirited comeback despite losing 3-1 in the first leg at Old Trafford.

As you can read in the full transcript below, Ole also revealed that Nemanja Matic has a minor fitness problem and admitted that Alexis Sanchez will return this summer from a loan spell at Internazionale…

Good morning. It's a Manchester derby, that kind of changes things, but after the first game, a lot of people thought it was dead and buried. However, there seems to be almost a different feeling going into the second game, perhaps of the time between the two legs?

“Well, it looked like it was over at half-time, because I have to say in the second part of that first half they outplayed us for a while and it was hard, but then when we got the goal of course, you're back in it. We hope for another one, but now we've got to go into the memory bank and think about PSG, because [that proves] we've done it against good teams before and it gives us some hope. And the game in December, of course, gives us hope that we can do something there.”

Scoring two goals isn't easy. But is the bigger challenge stopping them from scoring?

“Well, it has to be a perfect performance to win with two goals against such a good team away from home. For us, it's not about away goals, we just need to score two more than them, so when they happen and how it happens... if we concede two, we need to score four, so it will be good not to concede first, because that makes it less difficult.”

I know it's risking wasting a question asking about Bruno Fernandes and you're smiling already...

“Yeah, you're wasting it! So don't ask it!”

Is there anything positive? I know City is more important as a game, but in terms of getting personnel in, is that going to happen?

“I haven't got any updates for you on transfers. Yeah, I think it was a waste [of a question]. I gave you the option, but I haven't got anything to say now. My mind is just on the game.”

Are you guys having to think outside the box though? January is a tough window. If you are to do a deal, are you having to think a little bit differently?

“Well, we've got players here that are working hard to get back as well and if there is something out there then the club are pursuing that and looking at it and of course it is the difficult window, it's always been. I can't remember how many good ones we've brought in, good deals that we've brought in during January. Henrik was good, Nemanja and Patrice, they were [good ones] too. Henrik was a loan. It's hard, it's very hard. The clubs don't want to lose their best players, so Alexis will come back in the summer and prove you all wrong.”

What about outgoings? Marcos Rojo, he hasn't played for a while. There's lots of talk about him. Is he one who is possibly leaving?

“I wouldn't think so. Marcos has been injured and he's been working to get back and get fit again. At the moment it doesn't look like it, no.”

And the squad looks all right heading into this game after Prenton Park?

“[It's] just Nemanja who had a slight problem, so he had to come off at half-time and he's played loads of football, so hopefully, hopefully we can get him back on the pitch tomorrow. I haven't seen him since yesterday.”

Ole, you were talking about getting players back, so is there anything positive that you can say about the likes of Pogba? Obviously we know Rashford's recently injured and McTominay. Is there anything at all out of those three that you can put a timescale on?

“It's hard to put timescales on long-term injuries, because they also need the training before they're injury free and they need to be match fit or fitter to be able to play. Paul has had his cast off and Scott's took his braces off, so at least now they can start doing work on the grass soon.”

You just mentioned before about needing a perfect performance against Manchester City. Obviously the fans have had a couple of good days at the Etihad in recent memory. December 7 was a special day for United, but how do you replicate that now? Are you in better shape now to go there and do that than you were then?

“They're getting players back as well and I think we hit them last time when they were struggling a little bit and since then they've really, really played well. For me we've lost Scott and Marcus since that game, so of course we're a little bit lighter in the player department, but we can't just defend. We have to go out there and try to keep the ball as well and make them run after the ball which isn't too easy because they're one of the best pressing teams as well. So, a perfect performance it has to be, but we've done amazing things before at this club and the PSG game is for me a very, very good example of how you can make a two-goal deficit work in your favour, because we need the first goal.”

Ole, I know you don't have to worry about FA Cup replays now, but I just wonder what your thoughts are on some teams that will have to now play in the winter break, and particularly obviously Jurgen Klopp's stance that he's going to put out his youth team?

“Cup replays? I think we all regret maybe not going for it [entering the FA Cup] in 2000, when we went to the world club tournament in Brazil and it's never nice not to be participating. At least they're participating. It's supposed to be a break and if we're going to help the English clubs, they need a break, but that's up to Jurgen and Liverpool to make decisions. Jose and Tottenham, they've got a replay [too], so we're just happy we didn't get a replay ourselves, because it was playing on our mind as well - what's going to happen if [we draw]? Maybe three days' less holiday.”

In 1999 when you won the Treble, did you ever have those worries about if we go so far in all competitions, it will jeopardise the one we really want? Or was that never in your mind?

"“Never in our minds and definitely not in my mind, because I love the FA Cup and [it meant] I could play games. I played in the semi-final, in the final, so when you've got a big squad, it's a challenge to win those three [trophies] and we did. It's always going to be down in history as the greatest season that an English club has ever done.”"

City v United: Our exclusive preview from Solskjaer

Our latest interview with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer covers a plethora of talking points, including the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City, plus a potential Emirates FA Cup tie against Wayne Rooney and alleged transfer 'targets' the boss hasn't heard of.

The in-depth conversation was conducted at the Aon Training Complex on Tuesday morning and, here, you can read a full transcript of the manager's comments.

So what are you waiting for? Make sure you're up to date ahead of Wednesday night's much-anticipated 19:45 GMT kick-off at the Etihad Stadium...

Firstly Ole, before we look ahead to the City match, what are your thoughts on the FA Cup fifth-round draw and a potential meeting with Wayne Rooney's Derby County or Northampton Town?
"“It’s another away game and of course it would be nice to meet Wayne on the pitch again. He’s still a top player. Let’s see how they do first in the replay against Northampton. We’re now through to the fifth round and we’re getting closer.”"

Derby will be favourites, with their replay being at home, but Northampton will know they have an opportunity to host a home game against United if they can get through, so they have plenty to play for too...
"“I think you saw with the Tranmere game and with the atmosphere that the whole place was ready for that game. It’s up to us to play well and score the goals [in the next round]."“""

It was a really professional performance at Tranmere to get into round five, wasn't it?
"“Yes I was very pleased with everyone especially in those conditions. It could have gone any way really. The boys played some very good stuff on that bad pitch and got some confidence from it.”"

You were able to rest players for the trip to Prenton Park and also take others off during it – that helps at this stage of the season, doesn’t it?
"“Yes. We need everyone but of course some of these players have played loads of football. Nemanja [Matic] had to come off, let’s see how he is before Wednesday night. Anthony [Martial], we could take off at half-time and Harry [Maguire] has played the most football for us, which is okay. City rested their players as well so they’ll be just as fresh.”"

How is the squad looking generally?
"“Apart from Nemanja it’s the same squad. Aaron [Wan-Bissaka] will be back in the squad and David [De Gea] too. We should have the same squad that’s been travelling lately. They’ve done fantastic. We have two more games [this week] so let’s give what we have then we have a little break.”"

So is it not too bad with Nemanja? He has been in really good form of late…
"“Nemanja felt something and to make sure we give him the best possible chance for Wednesday night we took him off [at Tranmere]. I think he should be fine, but let’s see.”"

It’s a tough task to get through against City, turning around a two-goal deficit, but we’ve done it before…
"“Well we went there in December, played really well and created loads of chances and defended well when we had to. This is a cup tie though and we need to win by at least two goals and in our memory bank we’ll have to go back to the PSG match. That gives us confirmation that we can do it but of course you’re playing against a good team and we know we’ll have to defend well and attack well, so it’s all set up again for these young boys to learn.”"

You can certainly take confidence from our league win there in December, can’t you?
"“Definitely. Then again it’s a different match. They can play on the first result and I don’t know what team they will play. But we’ll go there and give it a go.”"

The transfer window is nearly shut and once it is I suppose everyone can then concentrate on football matters on the pitch, rather than off it, which is dominating your press conferences...
"“Yes all the press in this second part of January has been all about transfers in and out and I can’t say anything until something happens. After the first of February let’s start the summer transfer window questions! [Laughs] That’s just the way it is here, there’s speculation about players. Some of them I’ve not even heard about or even considered have been touted about.”"

Finally, it would be great to give the fans two big performances against City and then Wolves before that much-needed winter break, when you can all recuperate…
"“Definitely. We’ve had some ups and downs but the players in the last two months have played 20 games in a very short space of time. They’ve given us everything and they will again in these last two games. Let’s hope we go into the break positively.”"

Solskjaer's fitness update on McTominay and Pogba

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has provided positive news on the fitness of two key Manchester United midfielders but admits they are still some way from making a return to first-team action.

Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay's seasons have both been seriously hampered by injury, with the midfield pair having not featured since our win against Newcastle United on Boxing Day.

Pogba, who played every game in August at the beginning of the season before making just four more appearances between September and December, has been sidelined since undergoing an operation. As for McTominay, he was hurt when making a jarring challenge in the first half of the victory over the Magpies.

Speaking to the media ahead of Wednesday's Carabao Cup semi-final second leg with Manchester City, Solskjaer provided an update and tried to give a timeframe on how long they will be out.

"“It's hard to put timescales on long-term injuries, because they also need the training before they're injury free and they need to be match fit, or fitter, to be able to play,”" he said.

"“Paul has had his cast off and Scott's took his braces off, so at least now they can start doing work on the grass soon.”"

Ole: Pogba is desperate to play

Paul Pogba is champing at the bit for a comeback with Manchester United, according to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The France midfielder has played just eight times this season after struggling with an ankle problem which necessitated surgery at the beginning of January, and the manager said Pogba just wants to get back to enjoying the game again.

"“Paul's had a terrible season with injuries and he's desperate to play football,”" Solskjaer told reporters at the Aon Training Complex.

"“If there's one thing that I know about Paul, he loves playing football and he loves just being out there training as well, and it's been playing on his mind."

"“Any player who is injured cannot wait to get back on the pitch, you feel so free. He's been playing with pain, so I'm sure when he's pain-free and he's injury-free, he'll enjoy his football.”"

Solskjaer revealed earlier in his press conference that Pogba has had his ankle cast removed, and will soon be able to train on grass again.

When asked if Paul was focused and determined to get back and help the team, Ole was firm in his reply.

"“I see a boy that is fed up of being injured and desperate to play football, yeah, and Paul has always been a top professional,”" the Norwegian said.

"“I don't have any doubts that when he comes back he's going to enjoy himself.”"

The prospect of Pogba’s return, as well that of fellow absentee Scott McTominay, will provide the Reds with a midfield boost as we head towards the business end of the campaign.

But Ole said the pair would face competition for their places, especially given how Fred and Nemanja Matic have fared in their absence.

"“It will definitely help us of course. They've played well, they've been important for us. Scott has had a fantastic season until he got injured, Paul has proven before how good a player he is and it will help us."

"“Fred and Nemanja have been absolutely terrific in the last few months now, because they've had to play every single game. I think they'll have a say, thinking 'they're not just going to take our places, we want to play.'”"

Matic’s contract expires in the summer, but Solskjaer confirmed the club is in negotiations to extend the 31-year-old’s deal.

"“Nemanja is playing some of the best football since I've come here, so for me Nemanja is a top professional and we're keeping in touch with him and we're talking to him, yeah.”"

Solskjaer expects Alexis Sanchez to return

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has predicted Alexis Sanchez can prove everybody wrong by returning to the club and regaining his best form.

The Chilean forward was loaned to Inter Milan in the summer but sustained an injury while on international duty and has only recently returned to the fold for Antonio Conte's Italian title-chasers.

Amid the constant speculation surrounding new recruits during the January window, Ole pointed out that there could be options for the 2020/21 squad within the present group, including the experienced South American.

"“We've got players here that are working hard to get back as well and, if there is something out there, then the club are pursuing that and looking at it,”" said Ole, at his press conference ahead of Wednesday's Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City.

"“And, of course, it is the difficult window. It has always been. I can't remember how many good 'uns we've brought in, good deals that we've brought in during January. Henrik [Larsson] was good, Nemanja [Vidic] and Patrice [Evra], they were two [good] ones. Henrik was a loan. "

"“It's hard, it's very hard. The clubs don't want to lose their best players, so Alexis will come back in the summer and prove you all wrong!"“""

Meanwhile, the boss denied reports suggesting Marcos Rojo is on the brink of moving out on loan ahead of Friday's deadline.

"“I wouldn't think so,”" he said. "“Marcos has been injured and he's been working to get back and get fit again. At the moment, it doesn't look like it, no.”"

Solskjaer's team news for semi-final derby

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is hoping Nemanja Matic will be fit for Wednesday's Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against neighbours Manchester City.

The Reds are trailing 3-1 in the tie following the first leg at Old Trafford but will retain some belief of reaching Wembley after winning at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League last month.

On the back of the 6-0 Emirates FA Cup demolition of Tranmere Rovers on Sunday, United are likely to make a couple of additions to those on duty at Prenton Park.

“We need everyone but, of course, some of these players have played loads of football,” Ole told MUTV.

“Nemanja had to come off, let’s see how he is before tomorrow. Anthony [Martial], we could take off at half-time and Harry [Maguire] has played the most football for us, which is okay. City rested their players as well so they’ll be just as fresh.”

Apart from Nemanja it’s the same squad. Aaron [Wan-Bissaka] will be back in the squad and David [De Gea] too. We should be the same squad that’s been travelling lately. They’ve done fantastic. We have two more games [this week] so let’s give what we have, then we have a little break.

“Nemanja felt something and to make sure we give him the best possible chance for tomorrow night we took him off [at Tranmere]. I think he should be all right but let’s see today in training.”

De Gea may get the nod to keep goal, despite Sergio Romero's fine form as his deputy in cup competitions, as the manager decides the best route to upsetting City on their home turf again.

There will be no Paul Pogba, Scott McTominay or Marcus Rashford, of course, but Eric Bailly has been fit enough to make the bench against Liverpool and Tranmere. He could be an option, particularly if Ole opts to field three central defenders in the derby.

CITY'S TEAM NEWS

Blues boss Pep Guardiola has a number of options available, with only Leroy Sane on the sidelines, although Aymeric Laporte is being treated carefully after his comeback from injury.

Claudio Bravo looks set to start in goal ahead of Ederson, while Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero were all rested for the facile home Emirates FA Cup victory over 10-man Fulham at the weekend.

FA Cup draw: Another away tie for United

Manchester United have been drawn away to Northampton Town or Derby County - featuring Wayne Rooney - in the Emirates FA Cup fifth round.
The tie will be played during the week commencing Monday 2 March, with any games that are level after 90 minutes going to extra time and, if necessary, penalties to determine a winner.

While the Reds reached the fifth round comfortably by beating Tranmere Rovers 6-0 away on Sunday afternoon, Championship side Derby were held 0-0 away by their League Two opponents Northampton. Rooney played the full 90 minutes for Phillip Cocu's Rams, against a Cobblers side managed by former Manchester City captain Keith Curle.

The two teams will compete for the right to host United when they clash again in the replay at Derby's Pride Park Stadium on Tuesday 4 February (19:45 GMT).

If Rooney and co live up to their billing as favourites, it will set up a 12th FA Cup tie between the Rams and the Reds - and the fourth in the last 11 years. Most recently, United beat Derby 2-0 at Old Trafford in January 2018 with late goals from Jesse Lingard and Romelu Lukaku, following 4-1 and 3-1 away wins in 2009 and 2016 respectively - Rooney scored for us in the latter.

Should Northampton pull off an upset and go through, they will face United for only the sixth time in their history. Four of the previous five meetings were at their ground, including the famous 1970 FA Cup tie when George Best scored six times in the Reds' 8-2 triumph and an enjoyable 3-0 away win in the same competition in 2004.

FULL FIFTH-ROUND DRAW

Sheffield Wednesday v Manchester City
Reading or Cardiff City v Sheffield United
Chelsea v Shrewsbury Town or Liverpool
West Bromwich Albion v Newcastle United or Oxford United
Leicester City v Coventry City or Birmingham City
Northampton Town or Derby County v MANCHESTER UNITED
Southampton or Tottenham Hotspur v Norwich City
Portsmouth v Bournemouth or Arsenal

This week at United

It’s the final week before Manchester United’s 16-day-long winter break, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side still have to negotiate two tough fixtures before we have the chance to recuperate.

Manchester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers lie in wait for the first team, while our women’s side, Under-23s and Under-18s will also be in action.

Here are all the confirmed key events coming up over the next seven days…

MONDAY

We’ll continue to provide reaction to Sunday’s 6-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup. After that superb fourth-round victory, we’ll discover our fifth-round opponents when the draw for the next stage takes place at 19:19 GMT, live on The One Show on BBC One. The Reds have been assigned ball number 1 in the hat, while the other numbers to look out for include 2 (Chelsea, last year’s fifth-round opponents), 6 (Northampton or Wayne Rooney’s Derby County), 13 (Manchester City) and 16 (Shrewsbury Town or Liverpool).

Prior to the draw, Sam Homewood will be hosting our live debate show Kicking Off, on MUTV, from 18:30 GMT. United supporters from around the world will, as usual, be giving their views on four selected topics, and you can vote for your favourite fan on the Official App.

Finally, we’d like to wish Lee Grant a very happy birthday. Our current goalkeeper, who signed from Stoke City in 2018, turns 37 today!

TUESDAY

Attention shifts towards Wednesday’s crunch Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will discuss the tie and give an update on his squad when he appears in front of the media at the Aon Training Complex. Watch and follow what happens in the Official App, and on ManUtd.com, from 10:00 GMT.

WEDNESDAY

The Reds travel to the Etihad Stadium for the second time in eight weeks, as we aim to overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit to make it through to the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on 1 March. We memorably came back from a goal down to get past City at this stage a decade ago, so will history repeat itself on Wednesday when the game kicks off at 19:45 GMT?

Our women’s side also face a crunch cup semi-final on the same night, with the Continental Cup last-four tie against Chelsea Women taking place at Leigh Sports Village from 19:30 GMT. Casey Stoney’s side were knocked out at this stage by Arsenal last season and the Blues – led by star striker Sam Kerr - will provide formidable opposition, given they haven’t lost a competitive game yet in 2019/20.

THURSDAY

As we look back on Wednesday night’s matches, we’ll also be taking the time to wish our former forward Dimitar Berbatov a happy 39th birthday. The Bulgarian, who memorably signed for the Reds on deadline day in 2008, made 149 appearances during a four-year spell at the club, scoring 56 goals. Have a good one, Berba! If you haven't heard his hilarious episode of UTD Podcast yet, we recommend you give it a listen on Deezer via manutd.com/podcasts.

FRIDAY

Solskjaer is set to hold another press conference, as he previews Saturday evening’s Premier League clash with familiar foes Wolves. Later in the day, Neil Wood’s Under-23s are back in action in Premier League 2. The young Reds are currently second in the table, two points behind unbeaten West Ham United, and will be aiming to close the gap when we travel down to East Anglia to take on Norwich Under-23s at Carrow Road (19:00 GMT kick-off) in a game which is being shown live on MUTV.

SATURDAY

United take on Wolves at Old Trafford at 17:30 GMT, in our final game before the winter break. It will be the third time we’ve played the Black Country outfit in less than a month, and Ole will be hoping for a repeat of what happened the last time Wanderers came to M16, when Juan Mata’s dinked finish secured FA Cup progress.

As it’s the home fixture which falls closest to the 6 February anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster, the club and our supporters will be remembering the 23 people who lost their lives in the 1958 tragedy.

Earlier in the day, Neil Ryan takes his Under-18s to Brockhall to face Blackburn Rovers. Kick-off in this Under-18 Premier League game is scheduled for 11:00 GMT.

We’ll also be wishing former Reds midfielder Darren Fletcher a happy 36th birthday. The Scotland international made 342 appearances for United in over a decade at the club, winning five Premier League titles, the FA Cup, the League Cup and, of course, the Champions League, in 2008.

SUNDAY

We close out an action-packed seven days with a Women's Super League fixture, as Casey Stoney's United team travel down to Adams Park to take on Reading at 14:00 GMT. Katie Zelem and co defeated the Royals 2-0 in the reverse fixture in October and a repeat of that scoreline would help us further consolidate fourth position.

Dalot: It's been a tough journey to my first goal

Diogo Dalot described a "“release”" of emotion after scoring his first Manchester United goal as the Reds dispatched Tranmere Rovers 6-0 in the Emirates FA Cup on Sunday.

The Portuguese defender, making only his fourth start of the season, and his first since October, struck United’s second from the edge of the area on 13 minutes.

Dalot has largely been sidelined through injury this season and, after the final whistle, he admitted the road to recovery had been ‘tough’, something which was reflected in his goal celebration.

"“Yeah, it was more like a release of something I’ve been feeling inside me after these three months,”" Diogo told us.

"“It’s been a tough journey, but like I said, these kind of things, a win and a goal make us feel like I’m doing a good job in fighting, working every day and taking the opportunities.”"

United overcame a sodden and muddy surface at Prenton Park, which had been the main topic of conversation in the lead-up to the game.

Dalot said the team had the right attitude when it came to adapting to the different challenges the pitch posed.

"“[It was] like a big fight,”" the 20-year-old added.

"“If we didn’t come with the right desire and the right mentality we could make it more difficult."

"“Like I said today we did a good job, right mentality, proper fight, respect the opponent and we get the win.”"

United now travel to the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, determined to overcome a two-goal deficit in the Carabao Cup semi-final.

Wolverhampton Wanderers will then visit Old Trafford in the Premier League in another tough-looking fixture, prior to the 16-day winter break, and Dalot is looking forward to more time out on the pitch.

"“Yeah, it’s why we’re here."

"“It’s what we work for every day for these kind of games, for this kind of fight and now we’re focused on tomorrow and we go again on Wednesday.”"

Who could be next for United in the FA Cup?

Manchester United will be represented by ball number one when the draw for the Emirates FA Cup fifth round takes place on Monday night.

The Reds booked a place in the last 16 with an emphatic 6-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park, where Harry Maguire, Diogo Dalot, Jesse Lingard, Phil Jones, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood were all among the goals.

The draw will begin at 19:19 GMT and fans can watch it via the competition’s official Twitter account, with United legend Teddy Sheringham and former England international Glen Johnson picking the names out of the hat.

Speaking after Sunday afternoon’s excellent win over Tranmere, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer joked about United’s recent run of away games in the competition and expressed his hope for an overdue home tie.

“We are into round five and we might get a home game, you never know,” said the boss with a smile. “I don’t want to jinx anything, but let’s wait for the draw.”

Scroll down to see who we can face...

FA CUP FIFTH ROUND BALLS

1 Manchester United
2 Chelsea
3 Southampton or Tottenham Hotspur*
4 Sheffield Wednesday
5 AFC Bournemouth or Arsenal
6 Northampton Town or Derby County*
7 Leicester City
8 Sheffield United
9 Reading or Cardiff City*
10 West Bromwich Albion
11 Norwich City
12 Coventry City or Birmingham City*
13 Manchester City
14 Newcastle United or Oxford United*
15 Portsmouth
16 Shrewsbury Town or Liverpool

*Tie to be replayed

Maguire & Lingard reflect on memorable victory

Manchester United duo Harry Maguire and Jesse Lingard were delighted to get on the scoresheet during Sunday’s 6-0 demolition of Tranmere Rovers.

The Reds ensured our progression to the fifth round of the Emirates FA Cup with an emphatic scoreline and performance on Merseyside, while six different scorers found the back of the net.

Two of those - Harry and Jesse - were interviewed on the muddy Prenton Park pitch immediately after the full-time whistle and admitted it was fantastic to score and help the team reach the last 16 of the cup.

“It’s been a long time coming,” Maguire told BT Sport. “I’ve had a lot of chances this year and I haven’t been able to find the back of the net.

“It’s great to put one in, help the team and get into the next round.”

Jesse echoed those sentiments, saying: “It’s always great to score a goal and help the team. A lot of people contributed today and it was a well-rounded performance from everyone.

“We stuck at it and we knew it was going to be tough. These are always difficult places to come but we’re into the next round.”

Our no.14 was voted Man of the Match on Sunday by our Official App users, with him earning 45 per cent of the nominations, beating Mason Greenwood (34 per cent) and Phil Jones (20 per cent) to the award.

“The goal always helps, especially to settle the crowd down,” Jesse added. “Once we got one we wanted two and three and we carried on with that.”

Much was made of the bobbly playing surface at Prenton Park and Maguire admitted the Reds did well to play such attacking football on the wet and sticky pitch.

“It was difficult, but it was the same for both teams,” Maguire said. “It was hard in the warm-up and then we got used to it.“

“We knew we had to get it down and play - if we would have played them at their game, they probably would have beat us. The lads did really well.

“Coming off a bad performance and result against Burnley we really set our stall out to put in a positive performance for the fans,“ he added. ”To get into the next round is what we came to do.”

Talking Points: Tranmere v United

Manchester United enjoyed an emphatic 6-0 win against Tranmere Rovers on Sunday, to progress to the fifth round of the Emirates FA Cup.

The superb victory saw a number of significant milestones, such as two players scoring their first United goals, while we also equalled a 128-year club record.

After an afternoon on Merseyside packed full of incidents and highlights, we’ve rounded up a number of the major talking points from the match…

POTENTIAL FIFTH-ROUND OPPONENTS

The Reds' victory at Prenton Park means we have progressed to the fifth round of the FA Cup for the sixth season in a row. United will be joined in the last 16 by a number of familiar foes, with the likes of Leicester City, Chelsea and Manchester City in the hat for the next stage, along with Sheffield Wednesday, Portsmouth, Norwich City, Sheffield United and West Bromwich Albion. There are also five fourth-round replays to take place, while Liverpool’s trip to Shrewsbury and Arsenal’s game against Bournemouth from this stage are yet to take place. The draw for the fifth round will take place on Monday night at 19:19 GMT on BBC’s The One Show.

MAGUIRE & DALOT ON THE SCORESHEET

Two players - Harry Maguire and Diogo Dalot - opened their scoring accounts for United on Sunday. The former has come pretty close to finding the back of the net in recent weeks, but in his 32nd United appearance, our summer signing celebrated that significant milestone at Prenton Park. It was also a strike to remember for our skipper, who banged in a beauty from outside the area. Not to be outdone, Dalot - starting his first game for United since October due to injury - blasted home our second soon after. The Portuguese full-back drove from deep and unleashed a powerful effort that gave opposition goalkeeper Scott Davies no chance.

JONES BACK IN THE GOALS

The Reds had another unlikely scorer against Tranmere with Phil Jones heading in a 41st-minute corner. The defender leapt highest in the box and despite David Perkins standing on the line, the header looped just over his head and into the back of the net. The goal was Phil’s first since the 2013/14 campaign - a season the centre-back actually scored three times for the Reds. The 27-year-old will also have been delighted to come away from the clash with a clean sheet.

200 GAMES FOR TONY

Anthony Martial became the 101st player to make 200 United appearances, during our trip to Tranmere. The French attacker marked the occasion by netting his 60th United goal just before the break as he curled an excellent shot into the far corner. In doing so, Martial also became the first player this season to net in the Premier League, Europa League, Carabao Cup and FA Cup. Mason Greenwood also achieved the same feat later in the game.

DEALNG WITH THE PITCH

Much had been made before the game about the state of the Prenton Park playing surface. However, rather than allowing the mud and bumps to affect our game, the Reds knuckled down and got on with things. In fact, our players seemed to revel on the surface, with several sliding into muddy tackles. While the pitch was certainly bobbly and uneven, it didn’t affect our free-flowing attacking play, with United pinging the ball about effortlessly at times in the game.

DOUBLE FIGURES FOR MASON

Greenwood added our sixth in the second half from the penalty spot. That strike means in his maiden full campaign at first-team level, the forward has scored 10 times across four different competitions. In fact, given that the teenager has netted for our youth sides this season in the EFL Trophy and Premier League 2, Mason has now scored in six different competitions this term. Greenwood gave another excellent display at Prenton Park and superbly linked the attack and midfield thanks to his movement and passing.

REDS EQUAL 128-YEAR RECORD

United scored six for the first time since our 8-2 win over Arsenal in 2011, during Sunday’s game - an impressive statistic in its own right. However, as the Reds found the back of the net with six different scorers, it means we equalled a record from 1892. United won 10-1 on that occasion 128 years ago, against Wolverhampton Wanderers, which remains our biggest-ever winning margin.

Solskjaer's verdict on six-goal win

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was delighted with his players’ attitude after Manchester United ran out 6-0 winners at Tranmere in the Emirates FA Cup.

Speaking to MUTV after the final whistle, the manager praised the application of his side and talked about Harry Maguire scoring his first goal for the Reds.

He also looked ahead to the fifth round, the draw for which takes place on Monday evening, and you can read his quotes below…

WE APPLIED OURSELVES WELL
“You see that pitch and I can understand if players feel I don’t want to play on this. We made sure before the game we had the right attitude. Go out there and do the job. Everyone is waiting for us to fail because it’s set up for that and they were excellent, the players. Of course, early on they had a little burst in the first few minutes. We stood up well against it and when you score three goals in 15 minutes you’re delighted. Different scorers, which also is good, confidence spread around, clean sheet, we scored on a set play so loads of positives.”

ON MAGUIRE’S STRIKE
“We’ve been waiting for that [goal] for a long time! It’s a great way for [Harry] to open his account and let’s hope he continues. The strikers scored in the end, Jesse scored so I'm very pleased with the attitude. We made it look easy at times and I thought we played well on this pitch. We were excellent.”

THE PITCH WASN’T AN ISSUE
“No complaining. Of course they knew they had to concentrate and focus but we said we want to play our way and find space and pockets, and try to play on the floor. If we try to play direct, in the air, we’re not really that type of team. We worked out a way and I can’t complain. From this morning when we met at Carrington, everyone’s been focused. We want to go far in this cup. It’s a great competition.”

THE FIFTH-ROUND DRAW
“We might get a home game [five of United’s last six ties have been away], you never know! I don’t want to jinx anything, but let’s wait for the draw.”
CITY AND WOLVES NEXT UP
“Another long week. It’s been a relentless two months and we’ve got two more games before we have a little break, so the players will have energy enough for those two games.”

FA Cup: Tranmere Rovers 0 Man. United 6

Manchester United sailed into the last 16 of the Emirates FA Cup with an emphatic 6-0 away win over Tranmere Rovers, flying out of the traps with five first-half goals and finishing the afternoon with six different names on the scoresheet.

First goals for the club from Harry Maguire and Diogo Dalot were followed by efforts from Jesse Lingard, Phil Jones and Anthony Martial, all before the break, and then a penalty by Mason Greenwood in the second period as the Reds ruthlessly ensured the 60 places between the two teams in the league pyramid was reflected on the pitch.

The United players signalled Ole’s intent from the kick-off, when six of them eagerly stood on the halfway line as Lee Mason’s whistle got the proceedings under way. And even though the excited hosts predictably piled forward in the opening minutes to forge both the first corner and first shot on target – from Connor Jennings, comfortably saved by Sergio Romero - the Reds soon took total control of the contest.

If Maguire was supposed to be a key figure in defence, few would have anticipated him joining the attack in the way he did after 10 minutes. The centre-back surged forward and, receiving a routine square pass from Victor Lindelof, smashed an unstoppable rising (and slightly deflected) right-foot shot beyond the despairing dive of his opposing captain, goalkeeper Scott Davies.

It was a memorable first United goal for Maguire and the perfect start for Solskjaer’s men, after a tough week that started on the other side of the River Mersey from Prenton Park. And if the identity of the first scorer surprised supporters and bookmakers alike, then the source of United’s second goal was similarly unlikely.

Dalot, to date, had not scored for the club either but he broke that duck in style in just the 13th minute of this match. After playing a one-two with Martial, he ferried the ball into the box, chopped back onto his right foot and fired a clinical shot across Davies.

Maguire, our attacker extraordinaire all of a sudden, created the next goal soon after, driving forward and feeding Lingard, who only needed a couple of touches at the edge of the box to set himself for a bending effort into the bottom right.

In rare flashes at the other end of the rutted pitch, Corey Blackett-Taylor despatched a couple of dangerous crosses from the left, turning Dalot to roll an inviting one across the six-yard box and having a later attempt coolly cut out by the chest of Matic. But Rovers were really unable to provide Romero with any moments of serious concern, or give anyone inside the ground any indication they were going to spring another cup surprise.

Lingard could have doubled his tally in the 33rd minute as he arrived in the box to meet a Luke Shaw delivery but a bobble deceived him and the Rovers fans behind the goal, at least for now, escaped further misery. Instead of Jesse, it was Jones who put the Reds 4-0 up. The centre-back leaped higher than his marker at the far post to meet Andreas Pereira’s left-wing corner and head powerfully past the helpless Davies for his first goal since 2014.

Just when we were beginning to wonder when United last scored so many times without the recognised strikers being amongst the goals, Martial stepped up to mark his 200th appearance for the club with a fine strike that deserves to go in his video scrapbook. The Frenchman was initially threatening to do it all by himself after cutting in from the left wing. but a moment’s pause, to lay off the ball to Shaw, proved helpful in creating the space he needed to whip a deflected shot past the rooted Davies.

With the game all but won and another knockout tie on the horizon – Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City – Solskjaer made two substitutions for the start of the second half, resting Martial and Matic, to bring on Tahith Chong and Fred. The manager later introduced Williams so Maguire could keep energy in his tank for that next test at the Etihad Stadium.

Chong soon seized his chance to make an impression, by charging into the penalty area and drawing a clumsy foul from Davies, who tried to clear with his feet but proceeded to clip the legs of our no.44. Lee Mason’s mind was made up instantly and seconds after he pointed to the spot, another Mason – Greenwood – sent the Tranmere keeper the wrong way and tapped the ball in for 6-0.

At this point, the previously shell-shocked home fans found their singing voices again and raised their volume to levels rarely heard since the early flurry of United goals. They were determined to at least make a contest of it in the stands, against the vocal 2,200 backing the Reds in The Cowshed End.

Dalot had a stinging effort beaten away by Davies at the near post, Chong drilled a shot against the keeper’s legs and Lingard’s curler just clipped the outside of the woodwork as the goal-hungry Reds sought an elusive seventh. Tranmere’s fans, meanwhile, were kept waiting for a consolation strike when a direct free-kick sailed over the crossbar and substitute Rushian Hepburn-Murphy fired wide with Romero at full stretch.

Chong remained determined to register his first senior goal for the club, but his left-foot firecracker unfortunately rattled the bar instead of finding the back of the net in front of the jubilant United faithful.

The scoring pattern therefore remained heavily weighted in favour of that fantastic first 45 minutes, when the Reds blew away any worries about the state of the pitch, and the giant-killing status of our hosts. Roll on Monday evening's draw for the fifth round.

MATCH DETAILS
Tranmere Rovers: Davies (c); Caprice, Clarke, Monthe, Ridehalgh; Danns, Perkins (Gilmour 65); Morris, Jennings, Blackett-Taylor (Hepburn-Murphy 74); Ferrier (Mullin 74).

Subs not used: Pilling, Woods, Wilson, Payne.

Booked: Davies.

United: Romero; Dalot, Lindelof, Maguire (c) (Williams 64), Jones, Shaw; Matic (Fred 45), Andreas, Lingard; Martial (Chong 45), Greenwood.

Subs not used: Grant, Bailly, Mata, James.

Booked: Jones.

Goals: Maguire 10, Dalot 13, Lingard 16, Jones 41, Martial 45, Greenwood pen. 56.

Solskjaer exclusive: This is the FA Cup I grew up on

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking forward to Manchester United's Emirates FA Cup fourth-round tie against Tranmere Rovers and an occasion that defines the spirit of this historic competition.

The League One side set up a meeting with the Reds after seeing off Watford in extra time on Thursday night in their FA Cup third-round replay.

A tricky surface at Prenton Park now awaits Ole's men and, in an interview with MUTV's Stewart Gardner on Friday morning, the United boss explained his players are excited by the cup tie...

Firstly, Ole, is there any news on the squad after Wednesday night?
“Victor [Lindelof] will be available again. He’s recovered [from illness]. That’s one more to choose from which is good. I don’t think anyone suffered any bad injuries.”

How’s Axel Tuanzebe coming along?
“Axel will be back after the mid-season break, training with us. He's had a difficult spell as well because it's taken so much longer than we thought. We had to make sure he is fine when he gets back.”

Lots of players have played lots of football – how are you looking at things for this weekend?
“It's three more games to go until we get a break. We'll prepare for Sunday and we just have to stay together, stick together and use the last bit of energy before we get a little bit of a break.”

How’s the mood been since Wednesday?
“Of course you’re disappointed and you’re down. It’s not nice to lose games in football, you’re here to win games. We had a behind-closed-doors match for some of them on Thursday with the Reserves and some of them had a day away to recover.”

You often say you don’t get too high when we win and you don’t get too low when we lose – is that just how you are?
“I’m made that way but of course this week has been a difficult one with the two defeats. I’m just made in the way of ‘okay let’s look forward and what can we sort, what we can learn and what do we need to do better'. There are loads of things we need to do better, of course, but I’ve never been too down.”

This weekend looks like a classic FA Cup tie – Manchester United coming to town to face a lower league club…
“For me this is the FA Cup. I watched the game on Thursday night and the pitch is how I remember the FA Cup to be from years ago, back home in Norway. Everyone will root for the smaller team and the home team of course, we’ve just got to go there and do a job. It’s going to be a different type of football game for our lads and it’s something they’ve got to handle.”

The pitch is undeniably so different to what we play on each week – is it an issue for players?
“You’ve got to be prepared for it and concentrated and focused. Of course anything can happen. The last few years in Norway there has been loads of AstroTurf games and also I remember playing on those types of pitches myself. Now when there is AstroTurf players get lazy in their heads because the bounce is always the same, but for me this is a great test of your mentality and character.”

Was this a difficult game to analyse and prepare for because you didn’t know who you were playing until Thursday night?
“You can analyse and analyse but I think it’s one of those that you know it’s going to be a mental and physical test. They’re direct and we’ve watched them before of course so we’ve done our preparation. It’s a different type of game to what we’re used to and a different surface but that’s the beauty of football.”

Against Watford, Tranmere came from three down to earn a replay and then went 120 minutes in that game to get through. So they’ve shown their mettle, haven’t they?
“Exactly. They’ve shown their character and their team spirit and belief. We know it’s going to be a tough day and we’re going to be ready for it.”

Is it sometimes quite tricky when you play opposition who have nothing to lose?
“That’s the beauty of the FA Cup. Their fans were bouncing on Thursday night and their stadium was rocking and they must have been on such a high, but being a Man United player wherever you go it’s a big cup final for whoever you’re playing against. Whether you’re in the Premier League or the FA Cup and that’s what our players are used to, that type of atmosphere when you go away, so we will be up for it.”

If you get through you’re in the fifth round and Wembley edges a bit closer…
“Yes and the games come thick and fast. We want to go as far as we can. The FA Cup final is a fantastic game to play in, I’ve been part of a couple of them. It’s a beautiful tournament and a fantastic competition and we want to get as far as we can.”

Gomes: Reds youngsters defying the odds

Angel Gomes admits he is part of a group of youngsters who are bucking the normal trend but is absolutely determined to take his chance in Manchester United's first team.

The talented midfielder has been one of the homegrown products promoted by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this season, and surely would have added to his six appearances in 2019/20 but for injury.

After coming off the bench in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final with Manchester City and the convincing win over Norwich City, he is clearly in the manager's thoughts and was an unused substitute during the midweek defeat to Burnley.

The 19-year-old is hoping he will get a chance to show his talents at Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup fourth round on Sunday, along with his peers such as Brandon Williams, James Garner, Tahith Chong and Mason Greenwood.

“We speak about it often, when we compare it to tournaments we went to when we were younger,” he told MUTV. “Stuff like that. Growing up in the Academy, we didn't really think we'd all make it together into the first team and be there around it.

“That was always the goal but we were often told you don't always make it through together with your team-mates. Luckily, we've had the chance to break through and to make it through together. Everyone is just encouraging towards us and each chance each of us gets is to try to show why we're in the first team.”

Gomes is keen to show he can handle the challenge at senior level, whenever the next chance arises, and produce more moments like when he helped set up Marcus Rashford's goal in the latest derby at Old Trafford.

“It's just getting the opportunity really and being able to take it with both hands,” he said. “Whichever game that is, it's being able to do my best to show what I can do.”

If he does play at Prenton Park, it will be his second outing at the Birkenhead venue this term, after being part of the Under-21s side that were beaten 3-2 in the Leasing.com Trophy knockout stages last month.

“It was a tough game with the conditions,” the youngster recalled. “We had an experienced side against a group of men and it was a good battle. We were ahead in the game and I can just remember the pitch wasn't the best. But that is what you're going to come up against and face, it's just being prepared to be able to battle in any circumstances really.

“The competition was very useful, just to get experience of playing against tougher and older sides with experience. I think it was good for the lads, who all showed good quality when they played, and weren't really fazed by it. We were unlucky when we got knocked out but the lads have responded well in the league [Premier League 2].”

Borthwick-Jackson heads to Oldham on loan

Cameron Borthwick-Jackson has secured another loan move away from Manchester United.

The defender has joined nearby Oldham Athletic until the end of the season, after returning from a spell with Sunday's Emirates FA Cup opponents Tranmere Rovers.

There will be a familiar face at Boundary Park as former Red Zak Dearnley also signed for the League Two club earlier this month.

Head coach Dino Maamria is busy adding to his squad as the Latics aim to push up from 18th in the table.

The 22-year-old has previously had loan moves at Wolves, Leeds United and Scunthorpe United.

We would like to wish Cameron the very best of luck at Oldham.

What happened the only time we faced Tranmere?

Manchester United have only met Tranmere Rovers once at senior level in our entire history.

The game came in the League Cup second round, only four fixtures into the 1976/77 season, one that would end in glory for Tommy Docherty's men with an FA Cup final triumph over arch-rivals Liverpool at Wembley, erasing the memories of losing to Southampton in the showpiece event in the previous campaign.

The draw at Old Trafford pitted winger Steve Coppell against his former club and he was, understandably, excited to take on his ex-employees.

“It will be a bit strange,” said Coppell on the eve of the tie. “I learned an awful lot of what I know from these people and now I'm having to play against them.

”I go back to Tranmere whenever I can and always look for their result first. I was delighted when they won promotion, just as I was heartbroken when they were relegated the season before.“

Local journalist Charles Lambert did not appear to be looking forward to the game as much, writing in the Liverpool Echo: ”Tranmere's chances are widely estimated as being only slightly better than those given [to] the Christians when they took on the lions.“

So it proved on the night, even though the 5-0 final scoreline is a little misleading as the match was goalless until the break, with the Third Division side acquitting themselves well.

Johnny King's Rovers had chances with striker Ronnie Moore, subject of interest from United over the close season, forced a good save out of Alex Stepney. However, two goals arrived within a matter of minutes after the break to boost United. Both came from early crosses, with Gerry Daly finishing coolly and Lou Macari belting in a second.

Stuart Pearson extended the lead, after keeper Dick Johnson parried a Coppell effort to deny him a goal against his old club, and winger Gordon Hill got on the mark in the 79th minute. Republic of Ireland midfielder Daly wrapped things up, five minutes later, with his second goal of the evening.

Tranmere's players received a round of applause from the Stretford End after the final whistle and Coppell admitted: “Rovers were magic in the first half until we changed our formation.”

Reds boss Docherty also felt the visitors played well but had no doubt the home side were far superior overall. “They played the ball about and tried to play good football. In the first half, they could have been quite pleased with themselves, although we could have been 3-0 or 4-0 up at half-time.”

His opposite number, King, commented: “Our heads dropped and it takes a lot to lift them. The score was a bit hard on us.”

Of course, there was also the financial benefit to the Birkenhead club, who picked up a six-figure sum in gate receipts.

“The money is useful,” said chairman Bill Bothwell. “But I was as proud tonight as ever I have been in my life. We never lost our temper or our sportsmanship.”

Tranmere v United: Ole's press conference in full

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was back in front of the media today, for a press conference at the Aon Training Complex to preview Manchester United’s Emirates FA Cup fourth-round tie at Tranmere Rovers.

The manager looked forward to the occasion at Prenton Park on Sunday afternoon and provided an update on the squad, revealing that Victor Lindelof is available again after a short absence through illness.

Here, you can read everything that he had to tell reporters…

Ole, how difficult is it to prepare for a game when you only find out your opponents last night?
“It's a quick turnaround anyway. We played on Wednesday, so we hadn't prepared a lot, but before the game yesterday we had watched a couple of the other Tranmere games and you watched the one last night, so the opposition is the opposition no matter what. We have to just concentrate and get our own house in order and be ready for the game ourselves. So, we'll look at it again today, but I don't think you want to fill the heads of the players too early with the next game all the time.”

And in terms of team news, anyone back, any updates?
“Victor has recovered, so he's well again, so let's see how well he feels today and tomorrow, and apart from that no one got any knocks that is anything to think about.”

Ordinarily this would kind of be the game where you'd throw in Eric Bailly maybe, but given the pitch is that something that has to go into your mind when you're selecting the side?
“What do you mean ordinarily I'd play Eric Bailly?”

Well in terms of when you're bringing someone back in a cup game…
“Eric has had a couple of games behind closed doors here as well. The pitch is not great, but that's the same for both of us. The players just have to be focused, ready. This generation coming through with astroturf and nice pitches, they get lazier in their heads, so Eric is probably one of them who is more prepared and ready for a game with that pitch. So everyone has just got to be focused, both for injuries but also of course the bounce of the ball.”

You look brighter and more optimistic this morning. I know you are optimistic, but...
“Thanks.”

Is there the energy within the squad to kind of lift them? Can they go again on Sunday?
“Of course we can go again. It's the second day today, of recovery. You've just got to get on with it. You've got to go onto the next one with the right mentality. After a game you're disappointed and you're down, of course you are, and I'm not going to lie, it's not been nice losing two games. That's how it is, but then you spend an hour or two and then you get over it and you look forward.”

I know you haven't given away too much on transfers, but how difficult would life be if no one else came in in January in terms of this small squad being stretched?
“It is stretched, but of course we're getting players back after the break as well, so we will be better off with a break. We're still working on one or two things, so let's see if the club can get it over the line.”

After Wednesday night people spoke about a toxic atmosphere around the club with the fans singing what they did, so many leaving before the end of the game, the defeat, all that kind of negativity. Do you feel that within the football club?
“Within the football club, on the training ground, the mood is still good. Of course everyone is down because we don't win and we all want to win games. It's understandable that supporters sometimes air their frustration when the results aren't great on the pitch. The last week has been two disappointing results, which has enhanced that feeling, but for us you get used to it at this club. When you've been at this club as long as I have you get used to the ups and the downs, and as we've just spoke about here, you've just got to get on with it. When you do well you don't take off, when you do badly you know you've got a job to do and you've got to do it better next time.”

And yourself?
“Myself? How I do. Those are different things, but of course it's thinking about football. But sometimes you can take your mind off it and spend time with your family.”

Are you concerned with the atmosphere and the negativity that's just mentioned there, that it would get worse if you don't bring any new faces in?
“I think our fans know what we have started on and I've been trusted to do that job by the club and for me that rebuild it doesn't go one way all the time. It doesn't go ‘we're doing great, we're doing great, we're winning games’. I've said it so many times. And the foundation has to be laid and the culture has to be properly set and laid down and with this group I feel I have a good core of players that believe in themselves and believe in what we're doing and I trust them to be the good lads carrying us forward with some signings, of course, with players coming back from injuries. You don't just take the roof off when you're going to knock your house down. You need to knock your house down and put the foundation in. You just don't start with the roof and for us we've had a couple of rainy days and we wish that roof was on, but you can't hide.”

Ole, you said things can't be done immediately, but we saw with for instance Pep Guardiola at City, he spent 500 million or whatever it was very quickly and we've seen the results. Why can't Manchester United do that?
“For me we do have a way of doing things. Of course you can see other teams have done well. You can see Jurgen [Klopp] has spent four years building his team and they're doing well now, so of course I've said it so many times, it's not going to be a quick fix. It's not going to be eight players in, or 10 players in, in one transfer window. We've had one transfer window, a proper one, in the summer, because Januarys are difficult, but we are still trying to do something now.”

Just on that. The desire for you to do well is very evident from the match-going support. They've been fully behind you. A lot recognise it's a long-term job. What convinces you that you will absolutely get the time and it could be years to implement the change you want?
“You know when you start on something you stick to that plan. For me anyway. I'm not going to change six or eight or nine, 10 months after I got the job and start believing in a different way of doing things. I'm going to stick to what I've been trusted to do by the club and hopefully that will be good enough and that they can see what we're doing is right. You know, it's one of these jobs, we know how football is nowadays but all my conversations with the club have been positive.”

Do you think it's about collectively holding your nerve, ignoring what's going on outside and sticking together resolutely?
“We can't react to all the noise outside. Of course there's always going to be criticism, you've got to take the criticism at this club, you've got to be stronger mentally probably than anywhere else in the world. I feel I am, the club is strong, the staff I've got with me they're very strong mentally. So we're sticking to what we believe in and I've got full faith in what we're doing.”

Marcus Rashford tweeted that he'd be involved in team meeting, sessions, everything. Has that been the case during his recovery? Has he been around the place?
“Well at the moment he's been having loads of treatment, so he'll probably be, he might be in the meeting today or tomorrow, who knows? Marcus is a genuine Manchester United supporter and he wants us to do well and he wants to help, he's at the games, so.”

Solskjaer: How we'll prepare for Prenton Park

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Manchester United are ready to face Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup on Sunday.

The identity of our fourth-round opponents was only confirmed at around 22:20 GMT on Thursday night, with the League One side defeating Watford 2-1, after extra-time in their third-round replay.

The boss revealed to reporters that his staff had scouted a number of Tranmere matches prior to Thursday’s tie, but insisted his own team’s preparation and performance was also important.

“It's a quick turnaround anyway,” Ole said in his pre-match press conference.

“We played on Wednesday, so we hadn't prepared a lot, but, before the game yesterday, we had watched a couple of the other Tranmere games and you watched the one last night, so the opposition is the opposition, no matter what.

“We have to just concentrate and get our own house in order and be ready for the game ourselves.

“So, we'll look at it again today, but I don't think you want to fill the heads of the players too early with the next game all the time.”

The pitch at Prenton Park will be a talking point in the run-up to the game, with two games postponed at the ground in recent weeks due to inclement weather.

United Women’s match against Liverpool was called off earlier this month due to a waterlogged pitch, while the replay with Watford had to be put back nine days after Storm Brendan wreaked havoc on the area.

The manager played down the likely effects of the playing surface, especially when asked if he might think twice about selecting Eric Bailly, who has just returned from six months out with a knee injury.

“The pitch is not great, but that's the same for both of us,” Solskjaer added.

“The players just have to be focused, ready. This generation coming through with astroturf and nice pitches, they get lazier in their heads, so Eric is probably one of them who is more prepared and ready for a game with that pitch.

“So everyone has just got to be focused, both for injuries but also, of course, the bounce of the ball.”

Solskjaer is hoping to use the FA Cup to lift spirits after a disappointing few days, which has seen us lose successive games in the Premier League for the first time this season.

“Of course we can go again,“ he stressed. ”It's the second day today [after Burnley], recovery. You've just got to get on with it.

“You've got to go onto the next one with the right mentality. After a game, you're disappointed and you're down, of course you are, and I'm not going to lie, it's not been nice losing two games.

“That's how it is, but then you spend an hour or two and then you get over it and you look forward.”

Solskjaer's team news for Tranmere tie

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could make changes to his team for Sunday's Emirates FA Cup tie at Tranmere Rovers.

The Reds have the opportunity to bounce back from disappointing league defeats to Liverpool and Burnley by securing a place in the fifth round of the world-famous knockout competition.

Our hosts from League One secured a lucrative tie by overcoming a much-changed Watford team 2-1 after extra-time on Thursday night.

Victor Lindelof was ill and missed the 2-0 home loss to the Clarets on Wednesday, joining Marcos Rojo, Axel Tuanzebe, Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba and top scorer Marcus Rashford on the sidelines.

However, the Swede is set to return in the middle of the defence at Prenton Park.

“Victor will be available again,” Ole told MUTV. “He's recovered so it's one more to choose from. That's good and I don't think anyone suffered any bad injuries, no, in midweek.”

Tuanzebe is still definitely unavailable, although he is not too far away from getting back out on the pitch.

“Axel will be back after the mid-season break, training with us,” added the boss. “He's had a difficult spell as well because it's taken so much longer than we thought. We had to make sure he is fine when he gets back.

“It's three more games to go until we get a break. We're still only on the second day after the last game so it's still a bit of a recovery day. We'll prepare for Sunday and we just have to stay together, stick together and use the last bit of energy before we get a little bit of a break.”

Tranmere had to battle for 120 minutes to get past Watford in their replay on a muddy pitch at Prenton Park, to set up Sunday's 15:00 GMT kick-off.

Calum Woods came on in extra-time after being a doubt but Micky Mellon's side were missing Ollie Banks, Mark Ellis and Evan Gumbs.

“I don’t think it’s an opportunity [for us to go through] because of the form United are in,“ explained Mellon. ”I know they have a threat. We have to make sure we are ready. We will give it everything we have got. There is no doubt we will be up against a good side.”

Confirmed: United's FA Cup fourth-round opponents

It has finally been confirmed that Manchester United will face Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup fourth round, after the Prenton Park club tonight earned a 2-1 win over Watford.

The two sides had initially drawn 3-3 at Vicarage Road earlier this month and their replay was at first scheduled for 14 January, until heavy rain in the area meant it was rescheduled for this evening.

Playing on a weathered pitch and under heavy fog, Tranmere took the lead through Emmanuel Monthe before Watford equalised via Kaylen Hinds. A period of extra time was required and substitute Paul Mullin hit a winning goal for the hosts.
Tranmere's reward is a high-profile fourth-round tie against United at Prenton Park on Sunday, live on BT Sport in the UK.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Reds reached this stage of the competition thanks to last Wednesday’s 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, in a tight and competitive third-round replay at Old Trafford.

United have never played a competitive match at Prenton Park and, as such, Sunday’s 15:00 GMT kick-off is one to look forward to for our travelling supporters.

The Reds are determined to bounce back in the best possible fashion, after suffering a couple of Premier League defeats against Liverpool and Burnley.

Of course, the FA Cup represents a good opportunity to win a trophy this season and Solskjaer is hungry to go all the way in the competition – just like he is in the Carabao Cup and UEFA Europa League.

The manager will preview this Sunday’s fourth-round tie against Tranmere when holding a press conference at the Aon Training Complex on Friday, which you watch from 10:00 GMT on MUTV and in our Official App.

On a foggy night at Prenton Park, League One club Tranmere named an experienced side as they smelt a potential upset against Premier League opponents Watford.

The Hornets made 11 changes from their loss at Aston Villa in the Premier League on Tuesday, as manager Nigel Pearson stuck to his pre-match statement that the FA Cup is not his priority.

A challenging playing surface appeared to provide an advantage to the hosts and they took a deserved lead on 36 minutes, when the powerful Monthe executed a lovely left-footed finish into the bottom right corner of the net.

After the break, Watford's Brazilian striker Joao Pedro burst through on goal but could not beat the goalkeeper Scott Davies. Holebas also struck the woodwork with a thunderbolt of a shot. The Hornets then scored an equaliser in chaotic fashion, when a goalmouth scramble from a corner led to substitute Kaylen Hinds finishing at the near post.

A period of extra time was required and the home team eventually prevailed, thanks to a late strike from substitute Mullin that was celebrated wildly.

FULL FOURTH-ROUND DRAW

Tranmere v United
Hull v Chelsea
Southampton v Tottenham
QPR v Sheff Wed
Bournemouth v Arsenal
Northampton v Derby County
Brentford v Leicester
Millwall v Sheff Utd
Reading v Cardiff
West Ham v West Brom
Burnley v Norwich
Coventry v Birmingham
Man City v Fulham
Newcastle v Oxford Utd
Portsmouth v Barnsley
Shrewsbury v Liverpool

James admits the Reds must be more clinical

Daniel James says Manchester United need to be more clinical after our 2-0 defeat to Burnley.

Victory against Sean Dyche's side would have taken the Reds to within three points of the top four after Chelsea dropped points against Arsenal on Tuesday night, but goals either side of half-time from Chris Wood and Jay Rodriguez helped the Clarets to a first-ever Premier League win at Old Trafford.

United registered 24 shots to Burnley's five, and James reflected on the team's performance after the match, saying the response to going two goals down wasn't good enough.

"“As a team we need to take chances better, we had a lot of shots, we should have got the first goal with the amount of chances we had,”" the Wales international told MUTV.

"“When we conceded that goal, it wasn’t good enough. We believe from when we were 2-0 down that we could still go on to win the game."

"“It happened at Sheffield United, we just have to believe in that but unfortunately it wasn’t there.”"

The Premier League now takes a backseat for 10 days, as United tackle an Emirates FA Cup tie at either Tranmere Rovers or Watford on Sunday, before the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Manchester City next Wednesday.

James admits there are valuable lessons from the Burnley game and says the players will aim to right those wrongs ahead of those two big cup ties.

"“It’s still up for grabs, tomorrow we will reflect on this game and see what went wrong. We’ve got two big cup games coming up and we’ve got to go into that with our heads held high. "

"“The next league game isn’t for a couple of weeks now which is in our mind but it’s about concentrating on the next game.”"

"“We have got to react, got to be better. We don’t know who we will be playing at the weekend yet but it’s going to be a tough game, next week as well."

James thanked the fans for supporting the side at Old Trafford, even though the result didn’t go our way.

"“Every week, home and away, they cheer us and stick by us. We’re going to react from this, we know we weren’t good enough.”"

Solskjaer frustrated by Burnley defeat

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer felt the first goal was crucial as Manchester United suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Burnley.

The visitors opened the scoring through Chris Wood, and then defended resolutely both before and after adding a second strike through Jay Rodriguez. But although the Clarets eventually claimed all three points, Ole was keen to point out the race for a top-four place is far from over and he has already turned his attention to bouncing back in the Emirates FA Cup this weekend.

Here’s what the boss had to say in his post-match interviews with MUTV and BT Sport…

IMPORTANT FIRST GOAL, DEFLATING SECOND

"“In the first half, I felt that with a bit of quality and luck, we could have scored the first goal. If you don’t get the first goal against Burnley, you know you’re in for a tough night because they can defend really well in the box. When they got the second goal, I think that is when all the air went out of the balloon.”"

THE HOME SUPPORT

“We hold our hands up and tonight wasn’t good enough, but they always support the team and I’ve felt that support ever since I’ve played here. It’s important that we do in difficult times. We’re all disappointed. The players after disappointed, the club’s disappointed, but what else can we do than come in tomorrow and know that we’re wearing a Man United shirt and work to improve again? [On] Sunday [we have another game] in the FA Cup - it’s relentless.”

DEALING WITH CRITICISM

“The boys are giving everything they've got. They are experiencing this period for the first time in their lives, some of them, and it's very difficult for them. The expectations of this club as well are high and some of them have played 10, 12, 15 games and it's not easy for them. So, of course, I'm going to back them. I'm going to be here to help them get through this, because when you're at Man United there's always going to be criticism and we hold our hands up now. We can't do anything but hold our hands up and say this isn't good enough for this club.”

RACE FOR A TOP-FOUR PLACE

“So many times we feel that we can claw that points tally back and it doesn’t happen. Then again, we’re still fifth and we’ve just got to continue. There are loads of games left and we’re going to do everything we can to get as many points as possible.”

KEEPING PERSPECTIVE

"“We're looking to improve, yeah, definitely. We know as well we've got our targets and days like this highlight more how well some of them have done so far in the season. Some of the results and performances we've had have been fantastic. Today, that's the second defeat at home, the first since August, and I'd thought we'd turned that corner winning games like this, but we haven't clearly and we will keep chipping away.”"

Premier League: Man. United 0 Burnley 2

Manchester United were unable to make up ground in the race for a Champions League spot as Burnley shocked Old Trafford with a 2-0 away win.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men remain six points behind fourth-placed Chelsea after a disappointing evening. A goal in the first half by Chris Wood and another in the second by Jay Rodriguez condemned us to our first home defeat in the Premier League since August.

United hadn’t beaten Burnley in the Premier League in the last three seasons at Old Trafford, having to share the points on every occasion, and the Clarets began displaying that stubborn and dangerous mix once again in the first half.

The Reds needed something special to find the openings and a trio of Aaron Wan-Bissaka crosses almost provided it.

Our right-back was the stand-out provider in the first half-hour but Anthony Martial, Juan Mata and Dan James were unfortunately all unable to finish off his good work.

Nemanja Matic, who was an impressive anchor man, also managed to get forward to set up Martial in the 33rd minute. But as the Frenchman prepared to strike, Burnley defender Charlie Taylor stole in to rescue the situation for his side with a perfectly timed challenge in the penalty area.

Clarets hitman Chris Wood had posted one warning of his predatory powers in the 24th minute when he steered a stooping header just wide.

The Reds got away with that one but that wasn’t the case with his next effort in the 38th minute. A free-kick was lumped into the area and Ben Mee nodded it on for Wood to lash home without any United player able to stop the set piece working clinically.

The manager brought on Mason Greenwood at half-time, as a replacement for Andreas Pereira, in the hope of providing some goalscoring magic to get the Reds back into the game. But before the teenage striker could have a meaningful go at it, Burnley instead came up with another killer attacking move to go 2-0 up after 56 minutes.

A smart, swift passing move cut through United and Jay Rodriguez stunned Old Trafford with a stunning left-foot drive that flashed high above David De Gea’s despairing attempt to stop a sensational strike.

United rallied with a flashing effort from James going just wide and then sub Greenwood almost got free but was hauled down by Charlie Taylor who was booked for his rugby tackle. It presented Juan Mata with a great free-kick opportunity but the Spaniard couldn’t capitalise, however, as he floated his set piece over the bar.

Burnley had plenty to hang onto now and they allowed the Reds plenty of the ball to attempt to set up a grandstand finale. Martial had two shots saved but the visitors proved adept at mopping up United’s efforts to carve a way to goal.

Luke Shaw thought he'd come up with a goal to start a late comeback but his 89th minute header was ruled out by the referee Jon Moss, backed up by VAR, for his push on Jeff Hendrick.

MATCH DETAILS

United: De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Maguire (C), Jones, Williams (Shaw 69); Matic, Fred; Andreas (Greenwood 45), Mata, James (Lingard 69); Martial.

Subs not used: Romero, Dalot, Bailly, Gomes.

Burnley: Pope, Tarkowski, Mee, Taylor, Lowton, Westwood, Cork, McNeil, Hendrick, Wood, Rodriguez.

Subs not used: Hart, Brady Pieters, Lennon, Vyrda, Long, Goodridge.

Goals: Wood 38, Rodriguez 56.

Bookings: Taylor, Westwood.

Attendance: 73,198.