Solskjaer’s chance to outshine No.1 candidate for his job

CARETAKER boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says he understands why Mauricio Pochettino is a contender for the Manchester United hot seat.

Solskjaer, who has won his first five games in charge of the Reds, will have his biggest test on Sunday when he takes on Pochettino’s Tottenham.

The Argentinian is the Old Trafford board’s No.1 choice to take the reins long term at the end of the season when Solskjaer’s interim spell ends.

And Solskjaer, who has made no secret of his desire to take the post full-time, can see why.

“He’s done a very good job,” he said. “The speculation is there for a reason, because he’s done well.

“But it’s not my job to rate different managers – my focus is on me and my team.”

He was speaking last night after United returned from a four-day training camp in Dubai, ahead of the visit to Wembley.

The former striker – who spent 11 years at United as a player – said the trip had enabled him and his men to develop an even better understanding for the second half of the campaign.

“I think every single day and every game will get us closer and closer and we’ll get more of an understanding of how we play,” said Solskjaer.

“There’s always things to work on – relationships, cohesion – so hopefully we’ll see a positive team.”

Putting one over on Pochettino would bolster Solskjaer’s case to be given the permanent job – giving the game even greater significance – but Harry Kane poses one of the biggest threats to his 100 per cent record.

“He’s not bad is he?” said the Norwegian. “He’s a fantastic goalscorer, one of the best in the world to play up there, then again I’ve got a couple I’m happy to work with.

“He’s a top, top professional, whoever plays with him and trains with him can talk more about him.

“But, from the outside, he’s a fantastic finisher, he never misses chances really, so let’s make sure he doesn’t get any against us.

“We’re playing one of the best teams in the league, so we have to be aware of their strengths.

“But we need to attack teams, that’s our strength as well, both as a team and the way we play.

“We won’t get as many chances to attack against them, so we’ve got to be ready when we get hold of the ball and use it, because Wembley is a decent size pitch.”

Solskjaer confirmed £89million midfielder Paul Pogba, who joined up with the squad late in Dubai after further treatment for a knee injury, is available.

“He looked OK towards the end, so he’ll be fit,” said Solskjaer. “He did have some problems but came through the last couple of sessions well.”