Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has spoken about the need to instil a positive mentality within his Manchester United squad as the Reds push to climb the Premier League table.
The Norwegian will take charge of his first game when United travel to Cardiff City on Saturday evening, and when he spoke to the media in his pre-match press conference, it was clear his focus is very much on the future.
“It's not down to me talk about the last five years,”
said Solskjaer.
“It's down to me to talk about the next five months and to work in the next five months to get us happy, get us smiling and get us winning games because we're too far down the league.
“We're not used to being sixth, we're used to challenging for the league. That's where we have to aim and look forward.”
Solskjaer said his appointment as caretaker manager has brought about a fresh beginning for the players in United's squad.
“Everyone starts with a clean slate,”
he said. “Everyone is now a part of Man United with me as the caretaker manager. I always feel players play better when they're happy and that's just the way I will manage them.”
While the Norwegian will ultimately make the decision as to who starts this weekend, he was quick to acknowledge the information that first-team coaches Michael Carrick and Kieran McKenna can provide, given the work they have done so far this term.
“I've spoken to most of the players,”
said Solskjaer. “I've had some time with the staff, but of course the game tomorrow is the first big decision to make - pick the team. I'm excited. Of course, there are loads of ideas in your head, but I've got so many good players that I'll speak to.
“Michael and Kieran have been here throughout the whole season,” he added, “so they've helped with the coaching. I haven't done any coaching yet and they're helping with the team selection, to see who's fit and who's not fit.”
One player in particular that Solskjaer needs no introduction to is Paul Pogba; the French midfielder was under the stewardship of the Norwegian during his time in United's Reserves.
“Paul's a terrific lad and he was when I had him as a kid as well,”
said the caretaker manager.
“He was always the happy-go-lucky lad and he's not changed personality-wise. He's a better player [than he was then] - he's a World Cup winner now - and of course he's one I want to get the best out of. We have so many quality players and he's no different to anyone else in that respect.”
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