Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer apologised to fans and said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-thrashed-4-0-by-everton-in-fresh-blow-to-top-four-hopes-212446">Sunday's 4-0 loss to Everton</a> showed that his team was far away from the standard needed to compete at the top of the Premier League table.

United have now lost five straight away games in all competitions for the first time since 1981 and have lost six of their last eight matches with their hopes of qualification for next year's Champions League fading with the latest loss.

"We’re way off where we want to be. When you lose in the league like we did here, everyone sees that we have a big job to do," said Solskjaer.

"This club has been down before, we’ve just got to pick ourselves up. It might not happen overnight, but it's going to happen.

"We know it's a big task and there is work to be done. We have to do it together, we have to get on with it because this is not good enough," added the Norwegian.

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The performance at sun-blessed Goodison Park lacked any of the spark, enthusiasm and confidence of the early Solskjaer reign and was described by former captain Gary Neville as "rancid".

From the moment Brazilian Richarlison volleyed Everton ahead in the 13th minute, United were second best in every area.

"From the first whistle everything went wrong. I just want to apologise to the fans. They’re the only people with the badge on today who can hold their head high, because we can't," he said after going over to the visiting supporters at the conclusion of the lifeless performance.

"Everton were better than us at all the basics. There are so many things that we need to do better to get a result. Talent has never been enough."

Everton were 2-0 up at the break and never looked in danger of allowing United back into the game. Solskjaer's side did not force Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford into action with a short on target until the 86th minute.

"You want to see the team express themselves. We were sloppy on the ball. We cannot hide, we just have to step up and say we have to improve," added Solskjaer.

"We just didn’t perform. That was not worthy of a Manchester United team. We hold our hands up and apologise to everyone associated with the club. We have a perfect chance to make amends on Wednesday (against Manchester City)."

The derby, vital for title chasing City, is the first of the final four games of the season in which United must hope to push themselves back into the top four.

"We have to win all four games, then we might have a chance. It’s a big ask, but we can do it. We can’t just talk about it, we’ve got to do it," said Solskjaer.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer apologised to fans and said Sunday's 4-0 loss to Everton showed that his team was far away from the standard needed to compete at the top of the Premier League table.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer apologised to fans and said Sunday's 4-0 loss to Everton showed that his team was far away from the standard needed to compete at the top of the Premier League table. United have now lost five straight away games in all competitions for the first time since 1981 and have lost six of their last eight matches with their hopes of qualification for next year's Champions League fading with the latest loss. "We’re way off where we want to be. When you lose in the league like we did here, everyone sees that we have a big job to do," said Solskjaer. "This club has been down before, we’ve just got to pick ourselves up. It might not happen overnight, but it's going to happen. "We know it's a big task and there is work to be done. We have to do it together, we have to get on with it because this is not good enough," added the Norwegian. "We know we let the fans and the club down." More from the #MUFC boss: — Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 21, 2019 × The performance at sun-blessed Goodison Park lacked any of the spark, enthusiasm and confidence of the early Solskjaer reign and was described by former captain Gary Neville as "rancid". From the moment Brazilian Richarlison volleyed Everton ahead in the 13th minute, United were second best in every area. "From the first whistle everything went wrong. I just want to apologise to the fans. They’re the only people with the badge on today who can hold their head high, because we can't," he said after going over to the visiting supporters at the conclusion of the lifeless performance. "Everton were better than us at all the basics. There are so many things that we need to do better to get a result. Talent has never been enough." Everton were 2-0 up at the break and never looked in danger of allowing United back into the game. Solskjaer's side did not force Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford into action with a short on target until the 86th minute. "You want to see the team express themselves. We were sloppy on the ball. We cannot hide, we just have to step up and say we have to improve," added Solskjaer. "We just didn’t perform. That was not worthy of a Manchester United team. We hold our hands up and apologise to everyone associated with the club. We have a perfect chance to make amends on Wednesday (against Manchester City)." The derby, vital for title chasing City, is the first of the final four games of the season in which United must hope to push themselves back into the top four. "We have to win all four games, then we might have a chance. It’s a big ask, but we can do it. We can’t just talk about it, we’ve got to do it," said Solskjaer.

Everton loss 'not worthy of a Manchester United team': Solskjaer

Manchester United's hopes of Champions League football next season suffered another huge blow as Everton romped to a 4-0 win at Goodison Park on Sunday.

A sixth defeat in eight games in all competitions for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men means they remain two points adrift of the top four in sixth.

Everton, chasing seventh, which could provide a route into next season's Europa League, made a flying start as Richarlison and Gylfi Sigurdsson struck inside the first 28 minutes.

Lucas Digne's sweet strike and Theo Walcott's goal completed Everton's biggest win over United since 1984.&nbsp;

United could easily fall five points off the Champions League places should Arsenal beat Crystal Palace at home later on Sunday and Chelsea win when they host Burnley on Monday.

Solskjaer's task in turning United's fortunes around does not get any easier as title-chasing Manchester City visit Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Manchester United's hopes of Champions League football next season suffered another huge blow as Everton romped to a 4-0 win at Goodison Park on Sunday. A sixth defeat in eight games in all competitions for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men means they remain two points adrift of the top four in sixth.

Manchester United's hopes of Champions League football next season suffered another huge blow as Everton romped to a 4-0 win at Goodison Park on Sunday. A sixth defeat in eight games in all competitions for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men means they remain two points adrift of the top four in sixth. Everton, chasing seventh, which could provide a route into next season's Europa League, made a flying start as Richarlison and Gylfi Sigurdsson struck inside the first 28 minutes. Lucas Digne's sweet strike and Theo Walcott's goal completed Everton's biggest win over United since 1984. United could easily fall five points off the Champions League places should Arsenal beat Crystal Palace at home later on Sunday and Chelsea win when they host Burnley on Monday. Solskjaer's task in turning United's fortunes around does not get any easier as title-chasing Manchester City visit Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Manchester United thrashed 4-0 by Everton in fresh blow to top four hopes

Cristiano Ronaldo is "1,000 per cent" certain to remain at Juventus, he said after they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-win-eighth-consecutive-serie-a-title-212170">clinched the Serie A title on Saturday with a 2-1 win over Fiorentina.</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ronaldos-effect-to-allegris-game-style-here-are-things-that-helped-juventus-win-eighth-straight-serie-a-crown-212178">Ronaldo, dismissing suggestions that he could cut short his three-year contract</a>, said he was delighted to have won Serie A at the first attempt, adding to his three English Premier League titles with Manchester United and two La Liga crowns with Real Madrid.

"I'm really happy to have won the Italian title in my first season here. It has been a great season for this Juventus, we also won the Italian Supercup," said the Portuguese forward, who has scored 19 league goals.

"We didn't do so well in the Champions League but there is always next year," he added. "I will stay, 1,000 per cent."

Defender Leonardo Bonucci, meanwhile, explained how Juventus had managed to bounce back from their shock Champions League quarter-final exit against Ajax on Tuesday when they lost 2-1 at home and went out 3-2 on aggregate.

"I'm sorry about the Champions but we transformed the disappointment into anger and energy. This Scudetto, the eighth in a row, is something unique," he said. "We really want to celebrate, this success makes the season's sacrifice all worth it.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri said winning with five games to spare was a "testimony to our great season".

"We put aside the elimination that brought us disappointment and bitterness. Fortunately, we had this match that allowed us to close the championship," said the 51-year-old who has been in charge for the last five campaigns.

Allegri said his team, who fell behind after six minutes, needed to deal better with setbacks.

"We came from Tuesday's disappointment, then entered the field and conceded a goal," he said. "We have to work on dealing with the unexpected, on Tuesday we suffered four devastating counter-attacks, today we did the same after we conceded the goal."

He said injuries had prevented Juventus from producing better performances.

"In general, during the season, we were unable to find continuity," he said. "There were constant new injuries and recurring fitness problems, so at times I had only 14 players to train with. Despite it all, we won by a big advantage.”

Cristiano Ronaldo is "1,000 per cent" certain to remain at Juventus, he said after they clinched the Serie A title on Saturday with a 2-1 win over Fiorentina. Ronaldo, dismissing suggestions that he could cut short his three-year contract, said he was delighted to have won Serie A at the first attempt, adding to his three English Premier League titles with Manchester United and two La Liga crowns with Real Madrid.

Cristiano Ronaldo is "1,000 per cent" certain to remain at Juventus, he said after they clinched the Serie A title on Saturday with a 2-1 win over Fiorentina. Ronaldo, dismissing suggestions that he could cut short his three-year contract, said he was delighted to have won Serie A at the first attempt, adding to his three English Premier League titles with Manchester United and two La Liga crowns with Real Madrid. "I'm really happy to have won the Italian title in my first season here. It has been a great season for this Juventus, we also won the Italian Supercup," said the Portuguese forward, who has scored 19 league goals. "We didn't do so well in the Champions League but there is always next year," he added. "I will stay, 1,000 per cent." Defender Leonardo Bonucci, meanwhile, explained how Juventus had managed to bounce back from their shock Champions League quarter-final exit against Ajax on Tuesday when they lost 2-1 at home and went out 3-2 on aggregate. "I'm sorry about the Champions but we transformed the disappointment into anger and energy. This Scudetto, the eighth in a row, is something unique," he said. "We really want to celebrate, this success makes the season's sacrifice all worth it. Coach Massimiliano Allegri said winning with five games to spare was a "testimony to our great season". "We put aside the elimination that brought us disappointment and bitterness. Fortunately, we had this match that allowed us to close the championship," said the 51-year-old who has been in charge for the last five campaigns. Allegri said his team, who fell behind after six minutes, needed to deal better with setbacks. "We came from Tuesday's disappointment, then entered the field and conceded a goal," he said. "We have to work on dealing with the unexpected, on Tuesday we suffered four devastating counter-attacks, today we did the same after we conceded the goal." He said injuries had prevented Juventus from producing better performances. "In general, during the season, we were unable to find continuity," he said. "There were constant new injuries and recurring fitness problems, so at times I had only 14 players to train with. Despite it all, we won by a big advantage.”

Cristiano Ronaldo is '1,000 percent certain' to stay at Juventus

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has warned his under-achieving Manchester United players there is no "hiding place" for them and they are playing for their futures at the club.

The United manager, whose side <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cristiano-ronaldos-struggle-to-lionel-messis-double-major-takeaways-from-uefa-champions-league-quarter-finals-211344#messi-feasts-on-english-foes-again-211325">exited the Champions League</a> this week in limp fashion against Barcelona, said he is looking to the likes of Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba to rediscover their best form as they battle to qualify for next season's Champions League.

United face three crucial league games with Everton, Manchester City and Chelsea that will have a huge say on whether they finish in the top four.

But with big-name stars such as Martial and Pogba desperately struggling for form in a run that has seen United lose five of their last seven league and cup games, the United manager has laid out demands to his players.

"I've learnt a lot about them over the months I've been here now and you get to know them," said Solskjaer.&nbsp;

"Most of them have really impressed me in their attitude and, of course, there are some who need to get a reality check of where they're at.

"Every day in training, every game when you're playing there's no hiding place and everyone can see what your level's at we're working with fantastic staff to create this culture."

'Have to be realistic'

Solskjaer, who has seen his side's fortunes slide since he was handed the job on a permanent basis after a sparkling start as interim manager, said tests such as Barcelona are good indicators of whether players are able to play at such a level.

"It is performances on the pitch that will determine where they're at in their careers, short term and long term, every single day," said Solskjaer.

"That's what we spoke about at Barca as well, when you're at big stadiums, you've got to step up, make good decisions and I'm looking forward to this period."

Martial, in particular, has been a frustration for the United manager, having scored just three goals in 2019 despite signing a lucrative new five-year contract in January.

Under Solskjaer's predecessor Jose Mourinho, the young Frenchman had seemed destined to leave Old Trafford only to show an improvement in attitude and form in the early games of the Norwegian's reign.

"I've spoken to individuals and they know, and Anthony is one I've spoken to, what we expect from them," said Solskjaer.&nbsp;

"Anthony's got a massive talent, signed a new contract and he knows we believe in him, so just keep working.

"I think anyone that plays for Man United has to deliver, to stay in the squad and stay in the team and Anthony is no different to Rashy (Rashford) or Rom (Lukaku) or Alexis (Sanchez) or the other forwards we have to choose from."&nbsp;

Despite some average business performed by his club in recent transfer windows, Solskjaer is confident they will be more successful in that area this summer.

"I've been speaking to the club, we know that we have to be realistic and have a job to be done there's no quick fix," he said.

"It's not like buy seven players and we're in the right shape."

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has warned his under-achieving Manchester United players there is no "hiding place" for them and they are playing for their futures at the club.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has warned his under-achieving Manchester United players there is no "hiding place" for them and they are playing for their futures at the club. The United manager, whose side exited the Champions League this week in limp fashion against Barcelona, said he is looking to the likes of Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba to rediscover their best form as they battle to qualify for next season's Champions League. United face three crucial league games with Everton, Manchester City and Chelsea that will have a huge say on whether they finish in the top four. But with big-name stars such as Martial and Pogba desperately struggling for form in a run that has seen United lose five of their last seven league and cup games, the United manager has laid out demands to his players. "I've learnt a lot about them over the months I've been here now and you get to know them," said Solskjaer. "Most of them have really impressed me in their attitude and, of course, there are some who need to get a reality check of where they're at. "Every day in training, every game when you're playing there's no hiding place and everyone can see what your level's at we're working with fantastic staff to create this culture." 'Have to be realistic' Solskjaer, who has seen his side's fortunes slide since he was handed the job on a permanent basis after a sparkling start as interim manager, said tests such as Barcelona are good indicators of whether players are able to play at such a level. "It is performances on the pitch that will determine where they're at in their careers, short term and long term, every single day," said Solskjaer. "That's what we spoke about at Barca as well, when you're at big stadiums, you've got to step up, make good decisions and I'm looking forward to this period." Martial, in particular, has been a frustration for the United manager, having scored just three goals in 2019 despite signing a lucrative new five-year contract in January. Under Solskjaer's predecessor Jose Mourinho, the young Frenchman had seemed destined to leave Old Trafford only to show an improvement in attitude and form in the early games of the Norwegian's reign. "I've spoken to individuals and they know, and Anthony is one I've spoken to, what we expect from them," said Solskjaer. "Anthony's got a massive talent, signed a new contract and he knows we believe in him, so just keep working. "I think anyone that plays for Man United has to deliver, to stay in the squad and stay in the team and Anthony is no different to Rashy (Rashford) or Rom (Lukaku) or Alexis (Sanchez) or the other forwards we have to choose from." Despite some average business performed by his club in recent transfer windows, Solskjaer is confident they will be more successful in that area this summer. "I've been speaking to the club, we know that we have to be realistic and have a job to be done there's no quick fix," he said. "It's not like buy seven players and we're in the right shape."

No hiding place for out-of-form Manchester United stars: Solskjaer

Liverpool have taken a cue from Manchester United and hiked prices for away supporters when they host Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals to subsidise tickets for own fans travelling to the Nou Camp, the Premier League club have said.

Manchester United had hiked prices for their quarter-final tie with Barcelona when the Spanish club charged 102 pounds ($132.50), which British media reported was the most expensive ticket to a United game outside of a final.

Liverpool have been allocated 4,620 away tickets priced at 119 euros ($133.70) each for the first leg in Spain on May 1.

In response, the Merseyside club raised their ticket prices for Barcelona supporters travelling to Anfield to the same amount and will use the extra revenue to ensure Liverpool fans pay only 88 euros for the first leg.

"All away tickets are priced at 119 euros, which is in line with Barcelona's pricing structure for the knockout stages of this season's Champions League," Liverpool said in a statement https://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/tickets/346619-ticket-update-for-champions-league-semi-final.

"As a result, LFC will charge Barcelona supporters a reciprocal ticket price of 119 euros in the return leg at Anfield on Tuesday, May 7.

"The additional revenue from this higher ticket pricing will be used to subsidise Liverpool supporters for their tickets, reducing the price by 31 euros to 88 euros."

Tottenham Hotspur play Ajax Amsterdam in the other semi-final with the final scheduled at Atletico Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano stadium in the Spanish capital on June 1.

Liverpool have taken a cue from Manchester United and hiked prices for away supporters when they host Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals to subsidise tickets for own fans travelling to the Nou Camp, the Premier League club have said.

Liverpool have taken a cue from Manchester United and hiked prices for away supporters when they host Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals to subsidise tickets for own fans travelling to the Nou Camp, the Premier League club have said. Manchester United had hiked prices for their quarter-final tie with Barcelona when the Spanish club charged 102 pounds ($132.50), which British media reported was the most expensive ticket to a United game outside of a final. Liverpool have been allocated 4,620 away tickets priced at 119 euros ($133.70) each for the first leg in Spain on May 1. In response, the Merseyside club raised their ticket prices for Barcelona supporters travelling to Anfield to the same amount and will use the extra revenue to ensure Liverpool fans pay only 88 euros for the first leg. "All away tickets are priced at 119 euros, which is in line with Barcelona's pricing structure for the knockout stages of this season's Champions League," Liverpool said in a statement https://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/tickets/346619-ticket-update-for-champions-league-semi-final. "As a result, LFC will charge Barcelona supporters a reciprocal ticket price of 119 euros in the return leg at Anfield on Tuesday, May 7. "The additional revenue from this higher ticket pricing will be used to subsidise Liverpool supporters for their tickets, reducing the price by 31 euros to 88 euros." Tottenham Hotspur play Ajax Amsterdam in the other semi-final with the final scheduled at Atletico Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano stadium in the Spanish capital on June 1.

Liverpool match Barcelona's ticket price to subsidise own fans

From Cristiano Ronaldo's struggle to Lionel Messi's double, major takeaways from UEFA Champions League quarter-finals second-leg

After their slim hopes of another famous<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-barcelona-reach-semis-with-messi-exhibition-against-united-211022"> Champions League revival were stopped dead by Lionel Messi and a rampant Barcelona</a>, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his Manchester United side need a huge overhaul in order to return to Europe's elite.

Although United made a bright start to their quarter-final second leg at the Nou Camp with Marcus Rashford hitting the crossbar early on, they were soon outclassed by Barca, who eased to a 3-0 win on Tuesday for a dominant 4-0 aggregate victory.

"We were fighting against a great team and we know there's work to be done but I've said all along this isn't going to change overnight," Solskjaer told a news conference.

"The next few years are going to be massive to get to the level that Barcelona and other teams are at."

Solskjaer has restored United's confidence and overseen a vast improvement in results in his four months in charge since taking the job after Jose Mourinho was sacked in December, giving the team hope of a top-four finish in the Premier League.

He also led them to a historic comeback after a 2-0 first-leg defeat at home to Paris St Germain in the Champions League last 16, going through on away goals with a 3-1 win in the French capital.

Yet the scale of the long-term surgery his side needs was laid bare at the Nou Camp, where Barca walked all over United.

Messi pounced on a wayward pass by United captain Ashley Young to break the deadlock in the 16th minute while midfielder Fred also surrendered possession a few moments later and Messi again capitalised, with his shot squeezing under the usually excellent David de Gea.

"We've got good players to work with and at the moment we've done really well to get to the quarters and challenge for top four, but we've got a rebuilding job. It starts with the coaches and players, and with one or two additions," added the Norwegian.

"We're on with the job and have spoken to the players we need to get the best out of each other, create an environment of top class attitude, world class attitude every single day."

Barca scored their third goal when Philippe Coutinho was left with plenty of space and time to curl a shot into the top corner.

United's attack only troubled Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen once, when Alexis Sanchez was thwarted in the closing stages.

"You know that at this level you cannot slip up and make mistakes and you have to take your chances when you get them," Solskjaer added.

"We didn’t capitalise on our great start, then they have their first two shots on target, they get two goals then it's game over. We did well to get here but we could see the difference between the two teams."

After their slim hopes of another famous Champions League revival were stopped dead by Lionel Messi and a rampant Barcelona, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his Manchester United side need a huge overhaul in order to return to Europe's elite.

After their slim hopes of another famous Champions League revival were stopped dead by Lionel Messi and a rampant Barcelona, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his Manchester United side need a huge overhaul in order to return to Europe's elite. Although United made a bright start to their quarter-final second leg at the Nou Camp with Marcus Rashford hitting the crossbar early on, they were soon outclassed by Barca, who eased to a 3-0 win on Tuesday for a dominant 4-0 aggregate victory. "We were fighting against a great team and we know there's work to be done but I've said all along this isn't going to change overnight," Solskjaer told a news conference. "The next few years are going to be massive to get to the level that Barcelona and other teams are at." Solskjaer has restored United's confidence and overseen a vast improvement in results in his four months in charge since taking the job after Jose Mourinho was sacked in December, giving the team hope of a top-four finish in the Premier League. He also led them to a historic comeback after a 2-0 first-leg defeat at home to Paris St Germain in the Champions League last 16, going through on away goals with a 3-1 win in the French capital. Yet the scale of the long-term surgery his side needs was laid bare at the Nou Camp, where Barca walked all over United. Messi pounced on a wayward pass by United captain Ashley Young to break the deadlock in the 16th minute while midfielder Fred also surrendered possession a few moments later and Messi again capitalised, with his shot squeezing under the usually excellent David de Gea. "We've got good players to work with and at the moment we've done really well to get to the quarters and challenge for top four, but we've got a rebuilding job. It starts with the coaches and players, and with one or two additions," added the Norwegian. "We're on with the job and have spoken to the players we need to get the best out of each other, create an environment of top class attitude, world class attitude every single day." Barca scored their third goal when Philippe Coutinho was left with plenty of space and time to curl a shot into the top corner. United's attack only troubled Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen once, when Alexis Sanchez was thwarted in the closing stages. "You know that at this level you cannot slip up and make mistakes and you have to take your chances when you get them," Solskjaer added. "We didn’t capitalise on our great start, then they have their first two shots on target, they get two goals then it's game over. We did well to get here but we could see the difference between the two teams."

Solskjaer calls for squad rebuild after Manchester United outclassed by Barcelona

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that their comeback victory over Paris St Germain in the last-16 will help the players to recover from a 1-0 deficit against Barcelona in leg-two of quarter-final Champions League clash.&nbsp;

In a pre-match press conference, Solskjaer said, "That memory from PSG will help the players," Solskjaer said at his pre-match press conference.

"It's not that long ago and we are one goal better off."

In the leg one lash at the Old Trafford, Barcelona overcame a punchless Manchester United to take the upper hand after Luke Shaw's own goal.&nbsp;

Shaw deflected a Luis Suarez header into his own net after 12 minutes, handing the Catalans a vital away goal that will make them clear favourites in the return leg.&nbsp;

Barca have not lost at home for 30 games in the Champions League since 2013 and while United can take credit for staying in the tie, they produced little that will overly worry the Spanish side.&nbsp;

The game against Barcelona marks Solskjaer's return to the stadium where he scored United's injury-time winner in the 1999 Champions League final against Bayern Munich.&nbsp;

"Of course it's a fantastic memory for me," he said.&nbsp;

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that their comeback victory over Paris St Germain in the last-16 will help the players to recover from a 1-0 deficit against Barcelona in leg-two of quarter-final Champions League clash.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that their comeback victory over Paris St Germain in the last-16 will help the players to recover from a 1-0 deficit against Barcelona in leg-two of quarter-final Champions League clash. In a pre-match press conference, Solskjaer said, "That memory from PSG will help the players," Solskjaer said at his pre-match press conference. "It's not that long ago and we are one goal better off." In the leg one lash at the Old Trafford, Barcelona overcame a punchless Manchester United to take the upper hand after Luke Shaw's own goal. Shaw deflected a Luis Suarez header into his own net after 12 minutes, handing the Catalans a vital away goal that will make them clear favourites in the return leg. Barca have not lost at home for 30 games in the Champions League since 2013 and while United can take credit for staying in the tie, they produced little that will overly worry the Spanish side. The game against Barcelona marks Solskjaer's return to the stadium where he scored United's injury-time winner in the 1999 Champions League final against Bayern Munich. "Of course it's a fantastic memory for me," he said.

PSG win will inspire players against Barcelona, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Manchester United head to Camp Nou, the venue where they won the Champions League in their treble-winning 1998-99 season, as they take on Barcelona in the 2nd leg of the quarter-final. Former Welsh Footballer and WION's resident football expert Matt Holland points out what Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's boys need to do in order to overturn their 1-0 deficit if they are to progress into the semi-final.

UCL Q/F Preview: Barcelona v Manchester United (WION Sports)

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen said that his team has learnt from the mistakes his team did in the previous season of Champions League.&nbsp;

In the previous edition of UEFA Champions League, Barcelona were ousted from the league in the quarter-final when they lost to Roma from a winning position.&nbsp;

Barcelona had beaten Roma 4-1 at the Camp Nou ahead of their trip to Italy for the second leg, however, a 3-0 loss at the Stadio Olimpico saw Roma advance to the semi-finals.&nbsp;

On being asked about it, Stegen said, "There are not many words to say about what happened in the past but we won't repeat what was hard to take."

Ter Stegen is confident his side will not repeat the same mistakes against Manchester United having <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-luke-shaws-own-goal-gives-barcelona-advantage-over-tame-united-209409">claimed a 1-0 win at Old Trafford</a> in the first leg courtesy of a Luke Shaw own goal.

He added, "We are here again a year later and we are in the place that we are in (following the first leg against Man United) we would like to avoid what happened in the past and for this it is necessary to have a new story and think ahead and I think tomorrow is a good day to achieve a great win."&nbsp;

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen said that his team has learnt from the mistakes his team did in the previous season of Champions League. In the previous edition of UEFA Champions League, Barcelona were ousted from the league in the quarter-final when they lost to Roma from a winning position.

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen said that his team has learnt from the mistakes his team did in the previous season of Champions League. In the previous edition of UEFA Champions League, Barcelona were ousted from the league in the quarter-final when they lost to Roma from a winning position. Barcelona had beaten Roma 4-1 at the Camp Nou ahead of their trip to Italy for the second leg, however, a 3-0 loss at the Stadio Olimpico saw Roma advance to the semi-finals. On being asked about it, Stegen said, "There are not many words to say about what happened in the past but we won't repeat what was hard to take." Ter Stegen is confident his side will not repeat the same mistakes against Manchester United having claimed a 1-0 win at Old Trafford in the first leg courtesy of a Luke Shaw own goal. He added, "We are here again a year later and we are in the place that we are in (following the first leg against Man United) we would like to avoid what happened in the past and for this it is necessary to have a new story and think ahead and I think tomorrow is a good day to achieve a great win."

Barcelona won't repeat last year's disaster, says goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen

Two Paul Pogba penalties earned lethargic Manchester United a 2-1 victory over West Ham United in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Having lost five of their previous six matches in all competitions, United looked short on confidence early on against West Ham, who had a goal ruled out in the 10th minute when Felipe Anderson was adjudged to be offside when finding the net.

That tight call went United's way, and soon after they were in front when Pogba hammered home a 19th-minute penalty, much to the relief of home crowd.

Even with the lead, United remained sluggish and did not muster another shot on target for the rest of the first half during which they saw less of the ball than their visitors.

The interval did little to rejuvenate United with Anderson's first goal in 14 league games drawing the visitors level just four minutes into the second period.

Michail Antonio twice went close to completing the turnaround for West Ham, but United stole all three points after Pogba again converted from the spot 10 minutes from time.

The win ensured United climbed above Arsenal into fifth place, two points behind Chelsea, while West Ham stayed 11th.

"They played better than us, it is fair to say, I don't think anyone will disagree," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said. "We got away with it. Sometimes we have lost when we should have won, so over a season it evens itself out."

Marcus Rashford was not fit enough to start for United, with Solskjaer making five changes from the side beaten by Barcelona in the Champions League in midweek, but the reshuffle did little to lift United as the Hammers controlled the opening exchanges.

Anderson sent the visiting supporters into raptures after converting former United striker Javier Hernandez's knockdown, but the linesman's flag denied the Brazilian.

United, though, were gifted the opportunity to break the deadlock through Pogba after Robert Snodgrass fouled Juan Mata in the penalty area.

West Ham, still on top after the break, equalised through Anderson, who lost his marker Marcos Rojo to fire Manuel Lanzini's cross past De Gea.

Substitute Antonio hit the bar with a thunderous strike from distance and was then denied by a brilliant De Gea save.

That stop proved crucial as Anthony Martial then raced clear before being upended in the area, with Pogba stepping up to fire in his seventh successful penalty of the season.

"We deserved more," West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini said. "It was a pleasure for me to see my team play like this against Manchester United in their own stadium."

Two Paul Pogba penalties earned lethargic Manchester United a 2-1 victory over West Ham United in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Saturday. Having lost five of their previous six matches in all competitions, United looked short on confidence early on against West Ham, who had a goal ruled out in the 10th minute when Felipe Anderson was adjudged to be offside when finding the net.

Two Paul Pogba penalties earned lethargic Manchester United a 2-1 victory over West Ham United in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Saturday. Having lost five of their previous six matches in all competitions, United looked short on confidence early on against West Ham, who had a goal ruled out in the 10th minute when Felipe Anderson was adjudged to be offside when finding the net. That tight call went United's way, and soon after they were in front when Pogba hammered home a 19th-minute penalty, much to the relief of home crowd. Even with the lead, United remained sluggish and did not muster another shot on target for the rest of the first half during which they saw less of the ball than their visitors. The interval did little to rejuvenate United with Anderson's first goal in 14 league games drawing the visitors level just four minutes into the second period. Michail Antonio twice went close to completing the turnaround for West Ham, but United stole all three points after Pogba again converted from the spot 10 minutes from time. The win ensured United climbed above Arsenal into fifth place, two points behind Chelsea, while West Ham stayed 11th. "They played better than us, it is fair to say, I don't think anyone will disagree," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said. "We got away with it. Sometimes we have lost when we should have won, so over a season it evens itself out." Marcus Rashford was not fit enough to start for United, with Solskjaer making five changes from the side beaten by Barcelona in the Champions League in midweek, but the reshuffle did little to lift United as the Hammers controlled the opening exchanges. Anderson sent the visiting supporters into raptures after converting former United striker Javier Hernandez's knockdown, but the linesman's flag denied the Brazilian. United, though, were gifted the opportunity to break the deadlock through Pogba after Robert Snodgrass fouled Juan Mata in the penalty area. West Ham, still on top after the break, equalised through Anderson, who lost his marker Marcos Rojo to fire Manuel Lanzini's cross past De Gea. Substitute Antonio hit the bar with a thunderous strike from distance and was then denied by a brilliant De Gea save. That stop proved crucial as Anthony Martial then raced clear before being upended in the area, with Pogba stepping up to fire in his seventh successful penalty of the season. "We deserved more," West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini said. "It was a pleasure for me to see my team play like this against Manchester United in their own stadium."

Two Pogba penalties earn Manchester United win over West Ham

Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal said his side were distracted by their upcoming Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United after the runaway La Liga leaders could only draw 0-0 at struggling Huesca on Saturday.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde made 10 changes to the team that had beaten United 1-0 in Wednesday's first leg as well as handing three players their La Liga debuts and the unfamiliar team failed to break down the league's basement club.

Despite the draw, Barca are well on course to lift an eighth Spanish league title in 11 years after beating nearest challengers Atletico Madrid 2-0 last week, and Vidal said Tuesday's second leg against United was their priority.

"I think everyone that was playing today was thinking about Tuesday's game, just like the guys who stayed at home," the Chilean Vidal told reporters. "The Champions League is what everyone is dreaming about."

Barca's imperious domestic record is in stark contrast to their recent failures in the Champions League, where they have failed to get beyond the quarter-finals since winning the competition in 2015.

They suffered a humiliating exit last year by losing 3-0 at AS Roma and coach Valverde came in for serious criticism for not resting players in their game with Leganes three days before their collapse in Italy.

Valverde was not about to make the same mistake again, leaving talisman Lionel Messi back in Barcelona along with Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic, while Luis Suarez and Gerard Pique were suspended.

"Obviously, we always want to win but this game came in special circumstances for us. We had just played on Wednesday and we have the second leg on Tuesday and I thought this was the moment to make changes," said the Barca coach.

"If we hadn't beaten Atletico, I would have picked a different team today, although you never know if the result would have been different. We could have done better today, but overall we're happy."

Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal said his side were distracted by their upcoming Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United after the runaway La Liga leaders could only draw 0-0 at struggling Huesca on Saturday.

Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal said his side were distracted by their upcoming Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United after the runaway La Liga leaders could only draw 0-0 at struggling Huesca on Saturday. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde made 10 changes to the team that had beaten United 1-0 in Wednesday's first leg as well as handing three players their La Liga debuts and the unfamiliar team failed to break down the league's basement club. Despite the draw, Barca are well on course to lift an eighth Spanish league title in 11 years after beating nearest challengers Atletico Madrid 2-0 last week, and Vidal said Tuesday's second leg against United was their priority. "I think everyone that was playing today was thinking about Tuesday's game, just like the guys who stayed at home," the Chilean Vidal told reporters. "The Champions League is what everyone is dreaming about." Barca's imperious domestic record is in stark contrast to their recent failures in the Champions League, where they have failed to get beyond the quarter-finals since winning the competition in 2015. They suffered a humiliating exit last year by losing 3-0 at AS Roma and coach Valverde came in for serious criticism for not resting players in their game with Leganes three days before their collapse in Italy. Valverde was not about to make the same mistake again, leaving talisman Lionel Messi back in Barcelona along with Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic, while Luis Suarez and Gerard Pique were suspended. "Obviously, we always want to win but this game came in special circumstances for us. We had just played on Wednesday and we have the second leg on Tuesday and I thought this was the moment to make changes," said the Barca coach. "If we hadn't beaten Atletico, I would have picked a different team today, although you never know if the result would have been different. We could have done better today, but overall we're happy."

Arturo Vidal says goalless Barcelona distracted by thought of Manchester United

La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a goalless draw by basement club Huesca on Saturday as coach Ernesto Valverde made sweeping changes to his line-up ahead of Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United.

The draw means second-placed Atletico Madrid could close the 12-point gap with Barcelona, who are on 74 points, if they beat Celta Vigo later on Saturday.

With the title practically assured after last weekend's 2-0 win over Atletico, Valverde fielded a radically different side to the team that won 1-0 at Old Trafford in Wednesday's first leg, making 10 changes and handing three players their league debuts.

Midfielder Riqui Puig was one of the debutants and the 19-year-old produced the best moment of an uneventful first half, picking out Ousmane Dembele with a wonderful pass but the forward dragged his shot wide.

Brazilian forward Malcom struck the post early in the second half and team mate Carles Alena missed the target from the rebound in Barca's best spell after the interval, while substitutes Philippe Coutinho, Jordi Alba and Arthur Melo could not improve the leaders' attacking threat when they came on.

Huesca desperately needed a win to keep up their slim hopes of avoiding relegation but they struggled to make much of an impact and stay rooted to the bottom of the standings with 25 points from 32 games.

La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a goalless draw by basement club Huesca on Saturday as coach Ernesto Valverde made sweeping changes to his line-up ahead of Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United.

La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a goalless draw by basement club Huesca on Saturday as coach Ernesto Valverde made sweeping changes to his line-up ahead of Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United. The draw means second-placed Atletico Madrid could close the 12-point gap with Barcelona, who are on 74 points, if they beat Celta Vigo later on Saturday. With the title practically assured after last weekend's 2-0 win over Atletico, Valverde fielded a radically different side to the team that won 1-0 at Old Trafford in Wednesday's first leg, making 10 changes and handing three players their league debuts. Midfielder Riqui Puig was one of the debutants and the 19-year-old produced the best moment of an uneventful first half, picking out Ousmane Dembele with a wonderful pass but the forward dragged his shot wide. Brazilian forward Malcom struck the post early in the second half and team mate Carles Alena missed the target from the rebound in Barca's best spell after the interval, while substitutes Philippe Coutinho, Jordi Alba and Arthur Melo could not improve the leaders' attacking threat when they came on. Huesca desperately needed a win to keep up their slim hopes of avoiding relegation but they struggled to make much of an impact and stay rooted to the bottom of the standings with 25 points from 32 games.

Makeshift Barcelona draw with basement club Huesca

Tottenham manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Mauricio+Pochettino">Mauricio Pochettino</a> said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years.&nbsp;

Tottenham face already relegated Huddersfield in the Premier League on Saturday without Harry Kane or Dele Ali.&nbsp;

Kane is likely to miss the rest of the season with an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenhams-harry-kane-has-significant-ankle-ligament-damage-209692">ankle injury</a> picked up in their Champions League win over Manchester City, while Dele Ali broke his hand in two places.&nbsp;

"Taking the past, the last few years, I don't think that we are favourites," said Pochettino in a press conference.&nbsp;

He added, "We are below them (Chelsea, Arsenal) but maybe with our belief, our confidence, maybe we are above. We trust in ourselves and are confident we are going to get the top four."&nbsp;

"I think it is going to be tough, it is exciting, amazing for everyone. For us, not so much. But it is going to be fantastic to achieve the top four at the end of the season."

Tottenham need the victory against Huddersfield to keep on track for Champions League football next season.

They are currently one point above Arsenal, but one behind Chelsea.&nbsp;

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years. Tottenham face already relegated Huddersfield in the Premier League on Saturday without Harry Kane or Dele Ali. Kane is likely to miss the rest of the season with an ankle injury picked up in their Champions League win over Manchester City, while Dele Ali broke his hand in two places. "Taking the past, the last few years, I don't think that we are favourites," said Pochettino in a press conference. He added, "We are below them (Chelsea, Arsenal) but maybe with our belief, our confidence, maybe we are above. We trust in ourselves and are confident we are going to get the top four." "I think it is going to be tough, it is exciting, amazing for everyone. For us, not so much. But it is going to be fantastic to achieve the top four at the end of the season." Tottenham need the victory against Huddersfield to keep on track for Champions League football next season. They are currently one point above Arsenal, but one behind Chelsea.

Mauricio Pochettino believes Tottenham not favourites to get the top four

Barcelona overcame a punchless Manchester United to take the upper hand in their Champions League quarter-final after Luke Shaw's own goal gave them a 1-0 first-leg victory at Old Trafford on Wednesday (April 10).

Shaw deflected a Luis Suarez header into his own net after 12 minutes, handing the Catalans a vital away goal that will make them clear favourites in the return leg.

After United's comeback against Paris St Germain in the previous round, Barca will take nothing for granted, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team will struggle to repeat the trick against a side with a fearsome home record.

Barca have not lost at home for 30 games in the Champions League since 2013 and while United can take credit for staying in the tie, they produced little that will overly worry the Spanish side.

Barcelona overcame a punchless Manchester United to take the upper hand in their Champions League quarter-final after Luke Shaw's own goal gave them a 1-0 first-leg victory at Old Trafford on Wednesday (April 10).

Barcelona overcame a punchless Manchester United to take the upper hand in their Champions League quarter-final after Luke Shaw's own goal gave them a 1-0 first-leg victory at Old Trafford on Wednesday (April 10). Shaw deflected a Luis Suarez header into his own net after 12 minutes, handing the Catalans a vital away goal that will make them clear favourites in the return leg. After United's comeback against Paris St Germain in the previous round, Barca will take nothing for granted, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team will struggle to repeat the trick against a side with a fearsome home record. Barca have not lost at home for 30 games in the Champions League since 2013 and while United can take credit for staying in the tie, they produced little that will overly worry the Spanish side.

Champions League: Luke Shaw's own goal gives Barcelona advantage over tame United

Manchester United's Paul Pogba has given an epic reply to Real Madrid transfer rumours after his side's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-luke-shaws-own-goal-gives-barcelona-advantage-over-tame-united-209409">0-1 defeat to Barcelona</a> in the first-leg quarter-final of UEFA Champions League at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

On being about playing against Barcelona in the Classico, Pogba said, "Yes, when we play in the Champions League it's always nice to play against Barca, it’s a dream for anyone."

Then reporter specifically asked his much-speculated move to Madrid, Pogba refused to talk.&nbsp;

"I won’t answer that," he said.&nbsp;

He further added, "I will only speak about the game, nothing else."

The 26-year-old Red Devil midfielder is contracted with the English Premier League side until June 2021. He had recently said, "At the moment I’m happy in Manchester. I play, there’s a new coach. Real Madrid is one of the biggest clubs in the world. I've always said it is a dream club for every player."&nbsp;

French coach Zinedine Zidane has rejoined Real Madrid 10 months after leaving the Spanish giants and speculation is rife about which players he will sign to bolster his squad.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/paulpogba?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paulpogba</a> just being Paul Pogba 🕺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNBAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNBAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/JynryPFbhF">pic.twitter.com/JynryPFbhF</a>
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Also, Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford are vital to his plans of building a team "worthy of the history of the club".&nbsp;

"They are vital for our future. You have got loads of players who you can build a team around and those are two that you asked me about."

Manchester United's Paul Pogba has given an epic reply to Real Madrid transfer rumours after his side's 0-1 defeat to Barcelona in the first-leg quarter-final of UEFA Champions League at Old Trafford.

Manchester United's Paul Pogba has given an epic reply to Real Madrid transfer rumours after his side's 0-1 defeat to Barcelona in the first-leg quarter-final of UEFA Champions League at Old Trafford. On being about playing against Barcelona in the Classico, Pogba said, "Yes, when we play in the Champions League it's always nice to play against Barca, it’s a dream for anyone." Then reporter specifically asked his much-speculated move to Madrid, Pogba refused to talk. "I won’t answer that," he said. He further added, "I will only speak about the game, nothing else." The 26-year-old Red Devil midfielder is contracted with the English Premier League side until June 2021. He had recently said, "At the moment I’m happy in Manchester. I play, there’s a new coach. Real Madrid is one of the biggest clubs in the world. I've always said it is a dream club for every player." French coach Zinedine Zidane has rejoined Real Madrid 10 months after leaving the Spanish giants and speculation is rife about which players he will sign to bolster his squad. .@paulpogba just being Paul Pogba 🕺 #MUFC #MUNBAR pic.twitter.com/JynryPFbhF — sntv (@sntvstory) April 9, 2019 × Also, Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford are vital to his plans of building a team "worthy of the history of the club". "They are vital for our future. You have got loads of players who you can build a team around and those are two that you asked me about."

Paul Pogba responds to Real Madrid transfer rumour

Barcelona defender&nbsp;Gerard Pique said that&nbsp;his&nbsp;side must kill Manchester United in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals to avoid Paris Saint-Germain's fate.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old, who made his first steps in the professional game at United to Barca in 2008 said that he looking forward to facing his former club Manchester United and his former teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who is the current manager of Man Utd.&nbsp;

In the round of 16, Manchester United turned around a 2-0 home defeat against PSG and won the tie on away goals with a dramatic 3-1 victory in the second leg.&nbsp;The historic win contributed to Solskjaer being handed the United job on a three-year contract.&nbsp;

Pique said that he has been impressed by the never-say-die attitude brought back by Solskjaer.&nbsp;

In a press conference, Pique told reporters, "It was a great experience playing alongside him. As I said, he helped me a lot and I am very happy to see him now in charge of the club, of Manchester United. He is doing a great job since he took charge of the team, they have won lot of games, they are playing much better."

Pique further added, "We have to be very concentrated from the first minute until the last minute of the tie, we know that Manchester United are very dangerous and that we have to play our best game to try to qualify."&nbsp;

"The PSG game should serve as an example for us that you cannot afford to leave Manchester United alive, if you can beat them with lots of goals then you have to do it," Pique added.&nbsp;

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said that his side must kill Manchester United in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals to avoid Paris Saint-Germain's fate.

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said that his side must kill Manchester United in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals to avoid Paris Saint-Germain's fate. The 31-year-old, who made his first steps in the professional game at United to Barca in 2008 said that he looking forward to facing his former club Manchester United and his former teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who is the current manager of Man Utd. In the round of 16, Manchester United turned around a 2-0 home defeat against PSG and won the tie on away goals with a dramatic 3-1 victory in the second leg. The historic win contributed to Solskjaer being handed the United job on a three-year contract. Pique said that he has been impressed by the never-say-die attitude brought back by Solskjaer. In a press conference, Pique told reporters, "It was a great experience playing alongside him. As I said, he helped me a lot and I am very happy to see him now in charge of the club, of Manchester United. He is doing a great job since he took charge of the team, they have won lot of games, they are playing much better." Pique further added, "We have to be very concentrated from the first minute until the last minute of the tie, we know that Manchester United are very dangerous and that we have to play our best game to try to qualify." "The PSG game should serve as an example for us that you cannot afford to leave Manchester United alive, if you can beat them with lots of goals then you have to do it," Pique added.

Gerard Pique speaks on facing former Manchester United teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has urged his side to make sure they do not leave Manchester United room for another heroic comeback in the Champions League when they visit Old Trafford in Wednesday's eagerly-awaited quarter-final first leg.

United made history in the last-16 by overturning a 2-0 home defeat against Paris St Germain to win the tie on away goals with a dramatic 3-1 victory in the French capital, underlining the club's reputation for stirring European revivals.

"The PSG game should serve as an example for us that you cannot afford to leave Manchester United alive, if you can beat them with lots of goals then you have to do it," Pique told a news conference on Tuesday.

"In the first leg PSG were the better side, they scored two goals and they could have scored more. United have a great history, in the second leg they played with lots of young lads from their academy and they still qualified.

"That game should remind us that we have to be very concentrated, as United are a very dangerous team."

Pique, 32, spent his first years as a professional with United, joining the club aged 17 but returning to Barca in 2008 after failing to hold down a place in the team due to fierce competition from Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

Pique has turned into one of Barcelona's best ever defenders in his 11 years back at his boyhood club and is on course to win an eighth La Liga title with the Catalans, who are also in the Copa del Rey final and have the treble within their sights.

But he said his experience at United was invaluable to his development.

"I went from being kid to an adult here, I had my first experiences as a professional and some crazy experiences off the pitch. I came here alone, without my family, I learned a lot and I left a completely different person," he recalled.

Pique also said United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer helped him through difficult times in Manchester when they were team mates, and he praised the former Norway forward for reviving the club's fortunes since succeeding Jose Mourinho in December.

"I remember Ole as a great team mate, I was 17 and he was a veteran and for sure he helped me adapt to the club, to the country and to the city," Pique added.

"It was a great experience to train alongside him, he helped me a lot so I'm happy to see him in charge of Manchester United. He's done a great job, won lots of games and got them playing much better. Tomorrow will be tough and I hope we can win."

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has urged his side to make sure they do not leave Manchester United room for another heroic comeback in the Champions League when they visit Old Trafford in Wednesday's eagerly-awaited quarter-final first leg.

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has urged his side to make sure they do not leave Manchester United room for another heroic comeback in the Champions League when they visit Old Trafford in Wednesday's eagerly-awaited quarter-final first leg. United made history in the last-16 by overturning a 2-0 home defeat against Paris St Germain to win the tie on away goals with a dramatic 3-1 victory in the French capital, underlining the club's reputation for stirring European revivals. "The PSG game should serve as an example for us that you cannot afford to leave Manchester United alive, if you can beat them with lots of goals then you have to do it," Pique told a news conference on Tuesday. "In the first leg PSG were the better side, they scored two goals and they could have scored more. United have a great history, in the second leg they played with lots of young lads from their academy and they still qualified. "That game should remind us that we have to be very concentrated, as United are a very dangerous team." Pique, 32, spent his first years as a professional with United, joining the club aged 17 but returning to Barca in 2008 after failing to hold down a place in the team due to fierce competition from Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic. Pique has turned into one of Barcelona's best ever defenders in his 11 years back at his boyhood club and is on course to win an eighth La Liga title with the Catalans, who are also in the Copa del Rey final and have the treble within their sights. But he said his experience at United was invaluable to his development. "I went from being kid to an adult here, I had my first experiences as a professional and some crazy experiences off the pitch. I came here alone, without my family, I learned a lot and I left a completely different person," he recalled. Pique also said United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer helped him through difficult times in Manchester when they were team mates, and he praised the former Norway forward for reviving the club's fortunes since succeeding Jose Mourinho in December. "I remember Ole as a great team mate, I was 17 and he was a veteran and for sure he helped me adapt to the club, to the country and to the city," Pique added. "It was a great experience to train alongside him, he helped me a lot so I'm happy to see him in charge of Manchester United. He's done a great job, won lots of games and got them playing much better. Tomorrow will be tough and I hope we can win."

Don't leave United alive in the tie, Gerard Pique warns Barcelona

There are instances in a club's history that can transform the mood and break barriers and as Manchester United prepare to face Barcelona in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, the class of 2019 were reminded about one such breakthrough moment.

Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's assistant Mike Phelan was part of the United team which beat Barca in the 1991 European Cup Winners' Cup -- ending a 23-year wait for a second European title after their famous European Cup win in 1968.

It was just the second trophy won by manager Alex Ferguson at United following the FA Cup triumph the previous season and the biggest prize since their last English league title in 1967.

In beating the Spanish giants in Rotterdam, thanks to two goals from Welsh striker Mark Hughes, United were suddenly back in the big time.

"It was a great occasion, the excitement and preparation that went into that as a player and then getting over to Rotterdam and preparing to play what were the favourites at that time, Barcelona with Johann Cruyff as manager," Phelan told Reuters in an interview.

Barca had the great Dutch defensive midfielder Ronald Koeman and the brilliant Danish forward Michael Laudrup, to compliment their Spanish core, including striker Julio Salinas.

But United, overwhelmingly English with a sprinkling of Welsh, Irish and Scottish talent, triumphed thanks to the goals of the former Barca striker Hughes.

"The game is like a blip but it is the time before and after the game that I remember," says Phelan who recalls the massive following of United fans in the Dutch city and the strong characters in Ferguson's dressing room.

The likes of Bryan Robson, Steve Bruce, Gary Pallister, Paul Ince, Clayton Blackmore and Brian McClair made up a team that was the true start of the Ferguson era.

"We knew we had created another moment in history for the club – it was terrific. It was also a push towards better things – it gave us a hunger to know that we could compete again at that level and we definitely moved into another territory where we continually won things," he said.

WONDERFUL STRIKE

Indeed, United were soon dominating English football and that success was to bring them up against Barca again in European competition.

Phelan was on the coaching staff in 2008, when United won a cagey, tactical two-legged Champions League semi-final encounter with Barca thanks to a wonderful strike from distance by Paul Scholes in the second leg at Old Trafford.

That set up the victory over Chelsea, on penalties, in the final in Moscow, as United won their second Champions League under Ferguson, following their memorable 1999 triumph against Bayern Munich -- at Barca's Nou Camp stadium.

But there are less positive memories from the two most recent clashes with the Spanish club -- a 2-0 defeat in the 2009 final and a 3-1 reverse in the 2011 decider when Pep Guardiola's former side again dominated.

"I think they were the best team in football at that time and led by an extremely good, up and coming coach, who has gone on to do even better," said Phelan.

"We were well beat, we had to take that on the chin. You try to be competitive – but our best wasn’t good enough," he added.

Barca are again favourites to reach the last four but Solksjaer's side have already shown, in the previous round, that they can overcome the odds.

United came back from 2-0 down to beat Paris St Germain after the first-leg to go through with a thrilling 3-1 win in the French capital and Phelan knows the team will have to repeat many of the qualities they showed in that game.

“We felt if anyone could do it – Manchester United could. The players embraced the whole thing. It was a real good feeling after the game, to know that the belief was there and that Manchester United can still create these moments," said Phelan.

"We got the reaction from the fans and the media which was great – it has gone down as a great night in football. Hopefully we can bottle it.

"With Ole and this new mindset we can produce some terrific performances."

Standing in their way is Lionel Messi -- a goalscorer in both those lost finals.

"He is now more mature than he has ever been and he is still doing the things that he is really good at," said Phelan.

"At that time he was part of a good group of players, I think now it is a little bit different in that he is more of an individual player for Barcelona, the stand-out player, whereas 10 years ago he was in there with Iniesta and Xavi and these types of players, who were exceptionally talented players.

"They just took football to a new level, a different dimension, extremely efficient and clinical but they had a maestro at the heart of it – when he turns up he is good enough to win a game on his own."

There are instances in a club's history that can transform the mood and break barriers and as Manchester United prepare to face Barcelona in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, the class of 2019 were reminded about one such breakthrough moment.

There are instances in a club's history that can transform the mood and break barriers and as Manchester United prepare to face Barcelona in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, the class of 2019 were reminded about one such breakthrough moment. Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's assistant Mike Phelan was part of the United team which beat Barca in the 1991 European Cup Winners' Cup -- ending a 23-year wait for a second European title after their famous European Cup win in 1968. It was just the second trophy won by manager Alex Ferguson at United following the FA Cup triumph the previous season and the biggest prize since their last English league title in 1967. In beating the Spanish giants in Rotterdam, thanks to two goals from Welsh striker Mark Hughes, United were suddenly back in the big time. "It was a great occasion, the excitement and preparation that went into that as a player and then getting over to Rotterdam and preparing to play what were the favourites at that time, Barcelona with Johann Cruyff as manager," Phelan told Reuters in an interview. Barca had the great Dutch defensive midfielder Ronald Koeman and the brilliant Danish forward Michael Laudrup, to compliment their Spanish core, including striker Julio Salinas. But United, overwhelmingly English with a sprinkling of Welsh, Irish and Scottish talent, triumphed thanks to the goals of the former Barca striker Hughes. "The game is like a blip but it is the time before and after the game that I remember," says Phelan who recalls the massive following of United fans in the Dutch city and the strong characters in Ferguson's dressing room. The likes of Bryan Robson, Steve Bruce, Gary Pallister, Paul Ince, Clayton Blackmore and Brian McClair made up a team that was the true start of the Ferguson era. "We knew we had created another moment in history for the club – it was terrific. It was also a push towards better things – it gave us a hunger to know that we could compete again at that level and we definitely moved into another territory where we continually won things," he said. WONDERFUL STRIKE Indeed, United were soon dominating English football and that success was to bring them up against Barca again in European competition. Phelan was on the coaching staff in 2008, when United won a cagey, tactical two-legged Champions League semi-final encounter with Barca thanks to a wonderful strike from distance by Paul Scholes in the second leg at Old Trafford. That set up the victory over Chelsea, on penalties, in the final in Moscow, as United won their second Champions League under Ferguson, following their memorable 1999 triumph against Bayern Munich -- at Barca's Nou Camp stadium. But there are less positive memories from the two most recent clashes with the Spanish club -- a 2-0 defeat in the 2009 final and a 3-1 reverse in the 2011 decider when Pep Guardiola's former side again dominated. "I think they were the best team in football at that time and led by an extremely good, up and coming coach, who has gone on to do even better," said Phelan. "We were well beat, we had to take that on the chin. You try to be competitive – but our best wasn’t good enough," he added. Barca are again favourites to reach the last four but Solksjaer's side have already shown, in the previous round, that they can overcome the odds. United came back from 2-0 down to beat Paris St Germain after the first-leg to go through with a thrilling 3-1 win in the French capital and Phelan knows the team will have to repeat many of the qualities they showed in that game. “We felt if anyone could do it – Manchester United could. The players embraced the whole thing. It was a real good feeling after the game, to know that the belief was there and that Manchester United can still create these moments," said Phelan. "We got the reaction from the fans and the media which was great – it has gone down as a great night in football. Hopefully we can bottle it. "With Ole and this new mindset we can produce some terrific performances." Standing in their way is Lionel Messi -- a goalscorer in both those lost finals. "He is now more mature than he has ever been and he is still doing the things that he is really good at," said Phelan. "At that time he was part of a good group of players, I think now it is a little bit different in that he is more of an individual player for Barcelona, the stand-out player, whereas 10 years ago he was in there with Iniesta and Xavi and these types of players, who were exceptionally talented players. "They just took football to a new level, a different dimension, extremely efficient and clinical but they had a maestro at the heart of it – when he turns up he is good enough to win a game on his own."

Barcelona clash recalls start of Manchester United's return to dominance

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-anti-submarine-helicopter-sale-to-india-207615">US</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-anti-submarine-helicopter-sale-to-india-207615"> approves 24 anti-submarine helicopter sale to India worth $2.6 billion</a>

The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean.

The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-seeks-new-brexit-delay-to-approve-deal-207606">British PM Theresa May seeks new Brexit delay to approve </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-seeks-new-brexit-delay-to-approve-deal-207606">deal</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May said Tuesday she would ask the EU to delay Brexit again to avoid Britain crashing out of the bloc next week, signalling she could accept a closer relationship with Europe to break months of political deadlock.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-stripped-of-immunity-can-face-prosecution-official-207607">Venezuela's Constituent Assembly strips Guaido of immunity, may face prosecution</a>

Venezuela's ruling Constituent Assembly stripped opposition leader Juan Guaido's immunity Tuesday and authorised the crisis-hit country's high court to criminally prosecute him for usurpation of functions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-woman-arrested-at-trumps-resort-with-malware-on-thumb-drive-207610">Chinese woman arrested at Trump's resort with malware on </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-woman-arrested-at-trumps-resort-with-malware-on-thumb-drive-207610">thumb</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-woman-arrested-at-trumps-resort-with-malware-on-thumb-drive-207610"> drive</a>

A Chinese woman carrying multiple cellphones and a thumb drive containing malware was arrested on Saturday at US President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida while he was staying there, court documents revealed Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-premier-league-wolverhampton-wanderers-topple-manchester-united-207613">English Premier League: Wolverhampton Wanderers topple Manchester United</a>

Wolverhampton Wanderers repeated their FA Cup defeat of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Manchester United thanks to a Chris Smalling own goal that gave them a 2-1 comeback win in a pulsating Premier League game on Tuesday.

US approves 24 anti-submarine helicopter sale to India worth $2.6 billion The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean.

US approves 24 anti-submarine helicopter sale to India worth $2.6 billion The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean. The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean. British PM Theresa May seeks new Brexit delay to approve deal Prime Minister Theresa May said Tuesday she would ask the EU to delay Brexit again to avoid Britain crashing out of the bloc next week, signalling she could accept a closer relationship with Europe to break months of political deadlock. Venezuela's Constituent Assembly strips Guaido of immunity, may face prosecution Venezuela's ruling Constituent Assembly stripped opposition leader Juan Guaido's immunity Tuesday and authorised the crisis-hit country's high court to criminally prosecute him for usurpation of functions. Chinese woman arrested at Trump's resort with malware on thumb drive A Chinese woman carrying multiple cellphones and a thumb drive containing malware was arrested on Saturday at US President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida while he was staying there, court documents revealed Tuesday. English Premier League: Wolverhampton Wanderers topple Manchester United Wolverhampton Wanderers repeated their FA Cup defeat of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Manchester United thanks to a Chris Smalling own goal that gave them a 2-1 comeback win in a pulsating Premier League game on Tuesday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Wolverhampton Wanderers repeated their FA Cup defeat of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/five-games-that-won-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-the-manchester-united-job-206274">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Manchester United</a> thanks to a Chris Smalling own goal that gave them a 2-1 comeback win in a pulsating Premier League game on Tuesday.

The result left United, who were reduced to 10 men in the second half, fifth on 61 points, behind Tottenham Hotspur on goal difference, denting their hopes of ending the season in the top four and qualifying for next year's Champions League.

The result also gave them plenty to ponder before next week's Champions League quarter-final first leg against Barcelona.

"We created our own downfall really ... But for their keeper, we should have won this game," rued Solskjaer.

Indeed, United, who went down to 10 men from the 57th minute after Ashley Young was sent off for a second yellow card, had begun brightly.

Romelu Lukaku saw a point-blank header saved by Rui Patricio, before Scottish midfielder Scott McTominay swept home a low 13th-minute shot from outside the box to make it 1-0. It was his first goal in 41 appearances for the club in all competitions.

Undaunted and fielding a strong team despite the distraction of an FA Cup semi-final against Watford on Sunday, Wolves quickly settled down on a cold and raucous night at Molineux and began creating plenty of chances of their own.

Portuguese striker Diogo Jota hit a deserved equaliser from close range in the 25th minute after a nervy-looking Fred had lost control and Raul Jimenez threaded the ball into the area.

But the game turned on right back Young's sending off for a second yellow card after a reckless hack on Jota. That enabled Wolves to pour forward, and in the 77th minute they got the winner when Smalling inadvertently prodded the ball over his own line after a goalmouth scramble.

"To do it twice against such an amazing team … I'm pleased for the fans and the boys," said Wolves' jubilant coach Nuno Espirito Santo who celebrated with the crowd, pumping his fist, at the end.

"United began the game very well ... We reacted well ... It's not easy to play against Man United. There's no secret. Work."

Wolves, who came up from the Championship last year, are seventh in the Premier League on 47 points, a dream position for their fans.

Wolverhampton Wanderers repeated their FA Cup defeat of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Manchester United thanks to a Chris Smalling own goal that gave them a 2-1 comeback win in a pulsating Premier League game on Tuesday.

Wolverhampton Wanderers repeated their FA Cup defeat of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Manchester United thanks to a Chris Smalling own goal that gave them a 2-1 comeback win in a pulsating Premier League game on Tuesday. The result left United, who were reduced to 10 men in the second half, fifth on 61 points, behind Tottenham Hotspur on goal difference, denting their hopes of ending the season in the top four and qualifying for next year's Champions League. The result also gave them plenty to ponder before next week's Champions League quarter-final first leg against Barcelona. "We created our own downfall really ... But for their keeper, we should have won this game," rued Solskjaer. Indeed, United, who went down to 10 men from the 57th minute after Ashley Young was sent off for a second yellow card, had begun brightly. Romelu Lukaku saw a point-blank header saved by Rui Patricio, before Scottish midfielder Scott McTominay swept home a low 13th-minute shot from outside the box to make it 1-0. It was his first goal in 41 appearances for the club in all competitions. Undaunted and fielding a strong team despite the distraction of an FA Cup semi-final against Watford on Sunday, Wolves quickly settled down on a cold and raucous night at Molineux and began creating plenty of chances of their own. Portuguese striker Diogo Jota hit a deserved equaliser from close range in the 25th minute after a nervy-looking Fred had lost control and Raul Jimenez threaded the ball into the area. But the game turned on right back Young's sending off for a second yellow card after a reckless hack on Jota. That enabled Wolves to pour forward, and in the 77th minute they got the winner when Smalling inadvertently prodded the ball over his own line after a goalmouth scramble. "To do it twice against such an amazing team … I'm pleased for the fans and the boys," said Wolves' jubilant coach Nuno Espirito Santo who celebrated with the crowd, pumping his fist, at the end. "United began the game very well ... We reacted well ... It's not easy to play against Man United. There's no secret. Work." Wolves, who came up from the Championship last year, are seventh in the Premier League on 47 points, a dream position for their fans.

English Premier League: Wolverhampton Wanderers topple Manchester United

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says he has been assured by star midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-a-dream-club-for-every-player-says-manchester-uniteds-paul-pogba-204692">Paul Pogba that the Frenchman </a>does not want to leave Manchester United despite mounting speculation over a switch to Real Madrid.

United midfielder Pogba last week described Madrid, managed by France great Zinedine Zidane, as a "dream club for every player" while on international duty.

Fuel was then poured on the fire ahead of Madrid's game at the weekend when the Real boss admitted that Pogba would be welcome at the Bernabeu if and when he decides to call time on his United career.

Zidane is expected to have a big transfer budget this summer to shake things up. Real crashed out of the Champions League to Ajax at the last-16 stage and trail Barcelona by 12 points in La Liga.

Solskjaer was only appointed permanent manager at Old Trafford last week but the future of United's most high-profile player is once again in the spotlight.

Madrid have a track record of taking some of United's star names, with both David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo swapping Old Trafford for the Bernabeu, but Solskjaer said he is not worried by the Pogba situation.

"It doesn't really concern me because my thought of action was to sit down and speak to Paul," he said on Monday.

"I have had my chat with Paul and we're fine. He is going to do his utmost here because he knows I am very fond of him as a player and as a person. He is important for us here, so there are no issues. He is happy here."

&nbsp;

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says he has been assured by star midfielder Paul Pogba that the Frenchman does not want to leave Manchester United despite mounting speculation over a switch to Real Madrid.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says he has been assured by star midfielder Paul Pogba that the Frenchman does not want to leave Manchester United despite mounting speculation over a switch to Real Madrid. United midfielder Pogba last week described Madrid, managed by France great Zinedine Zidane, as a "dream club for every player" while on international duty. Fuel was then poured on the fire ahead of Madrid's game at the weekend when the Real boss admitted that Pogba would be welcome at the Bernabeu if and when he decides to call time on his United career. Zidane is expected to have a big transfer budget this summer to shake things up. Real crashed out of the Champions League to Ajax at the last-16 stage and trail Barcelona by 12 points in La Liga. Solskjaer was only appointed permanent manager at Old Trafford last week but the future of United's most high-profile player is once again in the spotlight. Madrid have a track record of taking some of United's star names, with both David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo swapping Old Trafford for the Bernabeu, but Solskjaer said he is not worried by the Pogba situation. "It doesn't really concern me because my thought of action was to sit down and speak to Paul," he said on Monday. "I have had my chat with Paul and we're fine. He is going to do his utmost here because he knows I am very fond of him as a player and as a person. He is important for us here, so there are no issues. He is happy here."

Pogba does not want to leave Manchester United: Solskjaer

Manchester United manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Ole+Gunnar+Solskjaer">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> labelled his team "sloppy" after they laboured to a 2-1 Premier League win over Watford at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Solskjaer's first game since being named manager on a permanent basis was a disappointing one with only the goals, in each half, from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial providing any satisfaction for the Norwegian.

"The first 20 minutes we started so slow and sloppy and you could see we have&nbsp;had players out with injuries in the international break and not been able to train them," said Solskjaer.

"It is one of them. The first games after international breaks that you know could be a potential banana skin. They deserved to take the lead. After we scored, with a great goal, the rest of the first half we played some great counter-attacking stuff," he said.

"Second half we started sloppier again but at 2-0 I thought we were in control but then they scored and anything could happen then," he added.

Solskjaer praised central defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling's displays but admitted the overall performance barely merited a win.

"It was more a draw, performance-wise. We'll take the three points. Some of the players who went away maybe played too much," he said.

The Norwegian said his team had been unable to bring Paul Pogba into the game enough with the Frenchman having a below-par match.

"Paul is important for us and we couldn’t keep the ball today. We had 50-50 possession at home, you are a bit disappointed with that.

"Paul has been away, played two games with France. A bit deeper (role) for them so that is something we may have to think about to get him more involved.

"Paul can do both, he can attack and defend. I thought Rashy (Rashford) was fantastic, he gave us the energy the others lacked, the two centre-backs and Luke Shaw were excellent as well," he said.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer labelled his team "sloppy" after they laboured to a 2-1 Premier League win over Watford at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer labelled his team "sloppy" after they laboured to a 2-1 Premier League win over Watford at Old Trafford on Saturday. Solskjaer's first game since being named manager on a permanent basis was a disappointing one with only the goals, in each half, from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial providing any satisfaction for the Norwegian. "The first 20 minutes we started so slow and sloppy and you could see we have had players out with injuries in the international break and not been able to train them," said Solskjaer. "It is one of them. The first games after international breaks that you know could be a potential banana skin. They deserved to take the lead. After we scored, with a great goal, the rest of the first half we played some great counter-attacking stuff," he said. "Second half we started sloppier again but at 2-0 I thought we were in control but then they scored and anything could happen then," he added. Solskjaer praised central defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling's displays but admitted the overall performance barely merited a win. "It was more a draw, performance-wise. We'll take the three points. Some of the players who went away maybe played too much," he said. The Norwegian said his team had been unable to bring Paul Pogba into the game enough with the Frenchman having a below-par match. "Paul is important for us and we couldn’t keep the ball today. We had 50-50 possession at home, you are a bit disappointed with that. "Paul has been away, played two games with France. A bit deeper (role) for them so that is something we may have to think about to get him more involved. "Paul can do both, he can attack and defend. I thought Rashy (Rashford) was fantastic, he gave us the energy the others lacked, the two centre-backs and Luke Shaw were excellent as well," he said.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer unimpressed as 'sloppy' United avoid banana skin

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer celebrated his first game as permanent Manchester United manager with a 2-1 Premier League win over Watford at Old Trafford on Saturday as his team moved back into the top four.

It was a far from impressive performance from United but goals from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial earned the victory which moved them up to fourth in the table, level on points with third-placed Tottenham Hotspur.

After a slow start, United took the lead in the 28th minute when Luke Shaw played a delightful through ball into the path of Rashford who clipped it past advancing Watford keeper Ben Foster.

Watford enjoyed plenty of possession in United's half and looked dangerous when breaking without causing David De Gea too much work.

United's main problem was their midfield which barely operated as a unit. Neither the deep-lying Nemanja Matic nor Paul Pogba, in an advanced role, were anywhere near their best and that left the only effective route down the flanks.

It was from a burst down the right wing that United made sure of the points with Martial's strike in the 72nd minute.

Substitute Jesse Lingard's low cross caused Martial and Foster to tangle for the ball, which fell kindly for the Frenchman who hooked home United's second.

Watford got some reward for their positive approach when Abdoulaye Doucoure slotted home in the 90th minute after an exchange of passes with Isaac Success.

"We were awful in the second half, we were lucky with the result," said Shaw, one of United's better performers.

"The most important thing is the three points. We need to forget about the game today because we were not at our best at all," added the England left back.

Norwegian Solksjaer, handed a three-year contract on Thursday, has led United to 15 wins in 20 matches in all competitions since taking over as caretaker manager in December.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer celebrated his first game as permanent Manchester United manager with a 2-1 Premier League win over Watford at Old Trafford on Saturday as his team moved back into the top four.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer celebrated his first game as permanent Manchester United manager with a 2-1 Premier League win over Watford at Old Trafford on Saturday as his team moved back into the top four. It was a far from impressive performance from United but goals from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial earned the victory which moved them up to fourth in the table, level on points with third-placed Tottenham Hotspur. After a slow start, United took the lead in the 28th minute when Luke Shaw played a delightful through ball into the path of Rashford who clipped it past advancing Watford keeper Ben Foster. Watford enjoyed plenty of possession in United's half and looked dangerous when breaking without causing David De Gea too much work. United's main problem was their midfield which barely operated as a unit. Neither the deep-lying Nemanja Matic nor Paul Pogba, in an advanced role, were anywhere near their best and that left the only effective route down the flanks. It was from a burst down the right wing that United made sure of the points with Martial's strike in the 72nd minute. Substitute Jesse Lingard's low cross caused Martial and Foster to tangle for the ball, which fell kindly for the Frenchman who hooked home United's second. Watford got some reward for their positive approach when Abdoulaye Doucoure slotted home in the 90th minute after an exchange of passes with Isaac Success. "We were awful in the second half, we were lucky with the result," said Shaw, one of United's better performers. "The most important thing is the three points. We need to forget about the game today because we were not at our best at all," added the England left back. Norwegian Solksjaer, handed a three-year contract on Thursday, has led United to 15 wins in 20 matches in all competitions since taking over as caretaker manager in December.

Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial give sloppy Manchester United win over Watford

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