Reserves ready to go

Reserves manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer feels his side is shaping up well for the rigours of the new campaign, after an unbeaten pre-season.

The Reds' second string faced a dozen opponents in an epic schedule, travelling across England, Holland and Belgium to record nine victories and three draws.

Solskjaer and his side also brought home silverware, snaring the Wout van Overdam trophy last weekend, and the Norwegian is relishing the commencement of competitive action.

"I think the lads are looking good," he told ManUtd.com. "They're looking sharper and sharper. We've come up against a variety of playing systems, which is an excellent part of their education, and so far we've not had too many niggles and injuries.

"We just hope we get everyone ready and in good shape for the competitive games, starting when we play Bolton in the Lancashire Senior Cup Final next week."

Solskjaer masterminded an enthralling victory over Liverpool in last summer's final - taking his first trophy as a manager - and he is