It’s Gunnar be brighter for United

THINGS are looking much rosier for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Manchester United.

Can they go on from a fine 10-game spell to win something tangible?

I thought Ole was history at Old Trafford. He was going through such a tough time that I suspected some of his players had downed tools.

But maybe they have realised that, if he goes, they might be on the bench or loaned out. A different manager might just buy older, more experienced players.

The Norwegian’s message seems finally to have hit home and his young players have risen to the challenge.

And then there’s Bruno Fernandes (below), whose impact has been remarkable. How come Liverpool, Manchester City, or Chelsea were not in a race for him? He is the real deal. He is technically good and could add more goals. He has leadership qualities. And he demands the best from his team-mates.

Joining United can easily swallow you up but Fernandes has taken it all on and is thriving.

I enjoy watching him play; I enjoy seeing Old Trafford teammates respond to him. Skipper Harry Maguire is a quiet bloke, not a shouter. So you look to others for leadership – and Fernandes is supplying it.

Over the last 10 games United have shown the consistency they were lacking in the first half of the season.

Sunday’s derby win over City can be a turning point for them. It could herald the start of a slow climb back to the top for United.

Some were saying fairly recently that United might not get back on their perch for another 30 years. I doubt they’d say that now.

They can buy players even when at their lowest.

The future is bright. But they have to keep this run going until Christmas to prove they can challenge Liverpool and Manchester City.