Solskjaer is a breath of fresh air for United, says Jones
LONDON: Phil Jones has saluted Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as a “breath of fresh air” after Manchester United made a winning start to the manager’s permanent reign.
Solskjaer was handed a threeyear contract last week after a successful spell as interim boss since December.
The former United striker’s astute leadership has revived a club in turmoil during his predecessor Jose Mourinho’s reign.
Fan favourite Solskjaer has led United into the Premier League’s top four and the Champions League quarter-finals.
There was a celebratory atmosphere ahead of Watford’s visit to Old Trafford on Saturday. Then Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial goals sealed a narrow 2-1 win.
Solskjaer knows it was a “sloppy” display and Jones accepts it was far from United’s best, but the long-serving defender is excited for the future and loving life under the Norwegian.
“The lads are buzzing. He’s come in, he’s been a breath of fresh air for us. He’s put arms around the shoulders of people who needed it,” the defender said.
“His man management skills are terrific and he’s definitely what we need going forward. Everyone can see that he has laid foundations.
“The fans, the media, everyone can see what he’s done and how he wants to play since he has come, and we’ve shown that in quite a few games.
“It’s positive, we’re looking forward and we’re pleased with the result.”
With a remarkable 35 points since Solskjaer’s arrival from Molde, United are the Premier League’s form-team even though the title remains out of reach for this season at least.
Meanwhile, Huddersfield Town earned praise from the Crystal Palace players and manager after a 2-0 defeat at Selhurst Park on Saturday which confirmed their inevitable relegation from the Premier League.
Wins for Burnley and Southampton sealed Huddersfield’s fate as they joined Derby County in 2007-08 and Ipswich Town in 1994-95 as teams to be relegated with still six games left to play.
“When you go into the dressing-room at halftime and get applause from the opponent you must have done something right,” Huddersfield manager Jan Siewert said. “But it is not enough to win games in the Premier League.”