United could turn to Southgate
MANCHESTER UNITED boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is under pressure to get results and it’s not just former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino waiting in the wings to take charge of the Old Trafford job
Manchester United could reportedly turn to England boss Gareth Southgate if they opt to sack Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The Red Devils take on Tottenham overnight in a must win game for the Norwegian who has recorded just six wins in 22 matches since being given the permanent job at Old Trafford.
Former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly keen on replacing Solskjaer should he be given the boot but it seems he may have competition from Southgate.
According to The Sun, Southgate could emerge as an option for them if results don’t improve.
However, there appears to be one stumbling block regarding past goings on at the club involving Sir Alex Ferguson.
Old Trafford chiefs, reportedly including Ferguson, attempted to block Southgate’s route into management.
Southgate was handed the Middlesbrough job to replace England bound Steve McClaren in 2006 when he was still taking his coaching Pro Licence badge.
That meant he needed dispensation from Premier League clubs to take charge.
Out of the 20 clubs, 19 approved the switch, with United the exception.
The Sun suggest that past decision could play an impact in any potential move for Southgate to United – should he even consider leaving his
England role.
Southgate is fully focused on preparing England for Euro 2020 having guided them to finish top of their group in qualification.
As for Solskjaer, he’s not bothered about speculation of other managers being linked with his job and is confident he still has the backing of fans.
“For me, I can just go on the evidence of the game days and supporters I’ve met,” he said.
“There’s not many I’ve met that say ‘you’ve got to do something different’. They can see what we’re trying to do. They know there’s a lot of work being done behind the scenes.
“We are putting a culture in the team, that’s what we’re trying to do here, with what’s happening here at Carrington.
“I know our supporters, the ones I’ve seen, the ones I’ve met, the matchday supporters, they’ve been very positive and that’s all I can go on.” – Daily Star