PRIDE AND PRIVILEGE
My men are now playing for shirt says Solskjaer
OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER says his players now realise what a privilege it is to play for Manchester United. United have seen a significant turnover of players since their last Premier League title win in 2013, when Sir Alex Ferguson finally stepped down.
Many of those players, including Alexis Sanchez and Angel Di Maria, were branded money- grabbing mercenaries, who had no desire to play for the club. But Solskjaer has spent his two years in charge rooting out such figures and believes he now has a squad that understand the honour of pulling on the famous red shirt.
“Everyone has realised they’re privileged to be part of Man United,” said Solskjaer, whose side can move level on points with leaders Liverpool with victory over Aston Villa tonight.
“So when you’re here, enjoy it as much as you can and maybe you’ll experience some fantastic times.
“You’ve got winners like Juan Mata and Nemanja Matic. They don’t play every single game, but they’re so influential in the group, the build- up to games and during games when they’re not playing.”
Solskjaer said United’s chances of success this season will depend on the utilisation of his squad, insisting he will continue to shuffle his pack.
“We have a strong squad and have rotated a lot,” said Solskjaer.
“We’ve not really called it a settled XI, because I don’t think this season is going to be about that anyway. It’s going to be about the 25 players. “Towards the end of the season, that will help us. It has to be done this way.
“When you leave Scott McTominay and
Fred out, it’s not easy, because they deserve to play every game, but Nemanja and Paul
Pogba played so well against Everton.
“Injuries and suspensions will happen, so our squad is well capable of being ready for every game.”
Solskjaer knows how tough it is to be left out, spending much of his playing days at United as an impact substitute.
The 47- year- old once scored four goals against Everton and was benched for the following league game. “I remember those four goals and also the times that you feel you deserve to play and you’re left out,” said Solskjaer. “That’s part of being at Man United – you’ve got top players everywhere. “We know that throughout the season if you’re going to win something you have to contribute.
“Players will have to be angry with me until the next time they play because, believe me, they’re not happy when I tell them they’re starting on the bench.”