Ole still United boss... for now
OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER is set for a stay of execution as Manchester United manager but is still fearing for his long-term future at the club. Solskjaer took training at Carrington yesterday for the first time since United’s 5-0 thrashing by Liverpool, a display labelled ‘embarrassing’ by senior players.
The Norwegian is preparing the team for Saturday’s trip to Tottenham amid a backdrop of intense scrutiny and some members of his squad questioning whether the slide can be halted under his management. Sportsmail understands that United — who gave Solskjaer (left) a new three-year contract over the summer — were planning to review the 48-year-old’s position in December.
The galling surrender at Old Trafford last weekend has, however, accelerated that process. Board-level talks between co-chairman Joel Glazer, Ed Woodward and managing director Richard Arnold took place on Monday. United had not been prepared for such a patchy run of results, with Solskjaer’s side losing five of their last nine games.
The club’s board has so far resisted the calls for change, with the Norwegian expected to remain in charge at Spurs.
Sir Alex Ferguson and former chairman Martin Edwards visited Carrington yesterday afternoon, with United insisting the pair were attending a pre-planned commitment.
Solskjaer now faces three huge games — Tottenham, a Champions League clash at Atalanta and then the derby against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City — that look likely to determine his prospects.
Some players have privately raised concern over the tempo of sessions and believe they are being consistently outsmarted tactically by opponents.
Glazer, based in Florida, has been watching developments with interest but senior United sources were adamant last night that no approaches for potential successors had been made after Antonio Conte, the former Chelsea boss, expressed an interest in a move.
Although formerly of Liverpool, Leicester City’s Brendan Rodgers has admirers at United — along with Ajax’s Erik ten Hag.