OLE: WE CAN’T LIVE IN THE ’90s
OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has warned it will take time to turn Manchester United into a major force again, admitting: ‘We’re not in the ’90s now.’ United have made their worst start to a league season since 1989 — also the last time they went 10 away games without a win in all competitions — ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Newcastle. It’s a far cry from the halcyon days when Solskjaer helped Sir Alex Ferguson rule English football and conquer Europe, but the Norwegian is convinced his young team is heading in the right direction. ‘It’s a different era, a different group that we’re building. We’re not in the ’90s now,’ Solskjaer said. ‘We know there are going to be ups and downs. I’m ready to see these boys blossom. ‘There are not many clubs with our stature that play the young players we do. They’ve got a chance to come through and we’re sure some of them will be part of a successful team.’ Solskjaer is optimistic he can overcome former United defender Steve Bruce on Tyneside and end the long wait for an away win stretching back to their Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain in March. ‘I do feel it’s going to come,’ said the United boss. ‘There’s no point me talking about it. I’ll get your questions until we do win.’ Solskjaer again expects to be without Paul Pogba, Anthony Martial, Luke Shaw, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Phil Jones at St James’ Park. Jesse Lingard joined the casualty list when he limped off with a hamstring strain towards the end of the dull Europa League goalless draw against AZ Alkmaar on an artificial pitch in The Hague on Thursday. ‘There are a few backs hurting now, said Solskjaer. ‘It’s a very hard surface but hopefully they will have a couple of days for recovery and should be ready for Newcastle. No excuses whatsoever.’