Abuse only makes Pogba stronger, says Solskjaer
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has warned Paul Pogba’s critics that their abuse only makes the Manchester United midfielder stronger, as the manager called on social-media companies to do more to stamp out racism on their platforms.
Much of United’s pre-match press conference was dominated by questions about their most expensive player, with Solskjaer confirming he will not interfere in the current team orders that Pogba shares responsibility for penalty kicks with Marcus Rashford.
And the United manager has responded to the attacks on Pogba by urging fans to rally round the France international in the same way his team-mates have since he missed from the spot against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
“Paul’s fine, Paul’s a strong character,” he said ahead of today’s home game against Crystal Palace. “He’s a strong character and it [abuse] makes him stronger. When you speak to him, he’s fine. I just cannot believe we’re still here in 2019 talking about these instances.
“We need to protect individuals and protect people. When there’s death threats and racism, it’s serious allegations, serious incidents.
“Sometimes you get annoyed. What can we do about it as Manchester United? We’re not going to ban our players from social media, we can use it to spread good.”
Solskjaer wants United fans to give their unequivocal backing to Pogba, even though many are still annoyed by the fact that he said he needed a move over the summer as he wanted a “new challenge”.
“We can all see Paul was disappointed when he missed the penalty,” Solskjaer said. “He doesn’t deserve this. When you sign for Man United you become a Manc. Once a Manc, always a Manc. He gives his absolute everything for the club every week.”
Solskjaer insisted that there would be no change to team orders. “I’m sure you’re going to see Paul Pogba score a pen for Manchester United again. We’re practising penalties still and Marcus and Paul are still on them.
“Don’t be surprised if Marcus or Paul scores the next one, so absolutely no fighting amongst them.”
Solskjaer also revealed that United are “still in talks with some clubs” over the potential transfer of Alexis Sanchez, but refused to be drawn into a tit-for-tat spat with former striker Romelu Lukaku after the Belgium international claimed he was picked on unfairly last season.