For around 20 minutes, the Champions League glory days really did feel like they were back for Manchester United.

The capacity 74,000 crowd at Old Trafford was in full voice, United were attacking Paris St Germain down the flanks with speed and aggression and their opponents looked shaky.

That feeling lasted until the French champions began to get a grip on the game and by the end of the night, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/champions-league-psg-take-charge-with-2-0-win-at-united-pogba-sent-off-197032">a 2-0 defeat in the last 16</a>, first-leg clash served to highlight the gulf that remains between this United team and the European elite.

"That's the level we want to get to" United's caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told reporters. "We've been talking about top four (in the Premier League), that's one thing but we want to be at the top and Man United should be at the top.

"This is a top, top team we played against. Our players today, are disappointed, of course, but I also think they know we need to step up our level to get to the level we want to get to," added the Norwegian after suffering his first defeat since taking over 12 games ago in December.

United lost forwards Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard to muscle injuries midway through the match and replacements Alexis Sanchez and Juan Mata failed to provide the necessary spark.

PSG had to cope without the injured Neymar and Edison Cavani, two-thirds of their attack, yet remained a real threat in the final third with Julian Draxler and Angel Di Maria causing United problems.

That is the kind of strength in depth United will need to build if they are to return to being the kind of force in Europe that they were under Alex Ferguson.

"It's a reality check, you can see the strength they have when they put those players in as you talk about but that's the level we want to get to," added Solskjaer.

"And we are looking to strengthen the squad and then again we have so many young players to take a step up for next season."

The Norwegian insisted, however, that his first loss won't wreck the momentum United have built up in the Premier League.

"No, not at all because at this club we have to bounce back and we are in a tournament, the Champions League, where it's always going to be difficult, but our bread and butter is the (domestic) league so (I'm) not afraid of that.

"The reaction in the dressing room was disappointment and when we go to Paris we'll give it a go. It is a difficult mountain to climb but not impossible".

Only once since the 2010-11 season have United won a Champions League knockout stage game and, with key midfielder Paul Pogba suspended after his late red card, the odds are stacked against that changing in Paris on March 6.

For around 20 minutes, the Champions League glory days really did feel like they were back for Manchester United. The capacity 74,000 crowd at Old Trafford was in full voice, United were attacking Paris St Germain down the flanks with speed and aggression and their opponents looked shaky.

For around 20 minutes, the Champions League glory days really did feel like they were back for Manchester United. The capacity 74,000 crowd at Old Trafford was in full voice, United were attacking Paris St Germain down the flanks with speed and aggression and their opponents looked shaky. That feeling lasted until the French champions began to get a grip on the game and by the end of the night, a 2-0 defeat in the last 16, first-leg clash served to highlight the gulf that remains between this United team and the European elite. "That's the level we want to get to" United's caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told reporters. "We've been talking about top four (in the Premier League), that's one thing but we want to be at the top and Man United should be at the top. "This is a top, top team we played against. Our players today, are disappointed, of course, but I also think they know we need to step up our level to get to the level we want to get to," added the Norwegian after suffering his first defeat since taking over 12 games ago in December. United lost forwards Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard to muscle injuries midway through the match and replacements Alexis Sanchez and Juan Mata failed to provide the necessary spark. PSG had to cope without the injured Neymar and Edison Cavani, two-thirds of their attack, yet remained a real threat in the final third with Julian Draxler and Angel Di Maria causing United problems. That is the kind of strength in depth United will need to build if they are to return to being the kind of force in Europe that they were under Alex Ferguson. "It's a reality check, you can see the strength they have when they put those players in as you talk about but that's the level we want to get to," added Solskjaer. "And we are looking to strengthen the squad and then again we have so many young players to take a step up for next season." The Norwegian insisted, however, that his first loss won't wreck the momentum United have built up in the Premier League. "No, not at all because at this club we have to bounce back and we are in a tournament, the Champions League, where it's always going to be difficult, but our bread and butter is the (domestic) league so (I'm) not afraid of that. "The reaction in the dressing room was disappointment and when we go to Paris we'll give it a go. It is a difficult mountain to climb but not impossible". Only once since the 2010-11 season have United won a Champions League knockout stage game and, with key midfielder Paul Pogba suspended after his late red card, the odds are stacked against that changing in Paris on March 6.

'Reality check': Solskjaer admits PSG showed Manchester United another level

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

Tuchel spoke highly of Solskjaer's contribution to the club as United's caretaker manager during a pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

"Obviously there is an effect. We have a (saying) in Germany if you go to the doctor and if he heals you, he's right. How he does it is we don't care. The pain goes away. He's right," said PSG coach Tuchel.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-says-missing-psg-stars-makes-them-unpredictable-196902">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'</a>

PSG take on Manchester United for a place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.

"It's a big challenge to play against him and happy to meet him tomorrow," Solskjaer added.&nbsp;

Solskjaer has won 10 of his 1 games since taking over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December, and Tuchel admits the turn around in form has been 'impressive'.&nbsp;

Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford.

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford. Tuchel spoke highly of Solskjaer's contribution to the club as United's caretaker manager during a pre-match press conference. "Obviously there is an effect. We have a (saying) in Germany if you go to the doctor and if he heals you, he's right. How he does it is we don't care. The pain goes away. He's right," said PSG coach Tuchel. Also Read: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable' PSG take on Manchester United for a place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. "It's a big challenge to play against him and happy to meet him tomorrow," Solskjaer added. Solskjaer has won 10 of his 1 games since taking over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December, and Tuchel admits the turn around in form has been 'impressive'. Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years.

PSG's head coach Thomas Tuchel compares Solskjaer to a doctor

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash.

Solskjaer took over as caretaker manager following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December and United have secured 10 wins in 11 games under his charge, their latest victory a 3-0 win at Fulham on Saturday.

United brought in Solskjaer as caretaker until the end of the season when they will make a decision on the next permanent manager.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-says-missing-psg-stars-makes-them-unpredictable-196902">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'</a>

When the draw was made for this fixture, Solskjaer was still at his Norwegian club Molde but now he has the chance to savour a big European night at Old Trafford.

As a player under Alex Ferguson, Solskjaer enjoyed many such nights -- including grabbing the stoppage-time winner in the 1999 final against Bayern Munich in Barcelona.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash. Solskjaer took over as caretaker manager following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December and United have secured 10 wins in 11 games under his charge, their latest victory a 3-0 win at Fulham on Saturday. United brought in Solskjaer as caretaker until the end of the season when they will make a decision on the next permanent manager. Also Read: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable' When the draw was made for this fixture, Solskjaer was still at his Norwegian club Molde but now he has the chance to savour a big European night at Old Trafford. As a player under Alex Ferguson, Solskjaer enjoyed many such nights -- including grabbing the stoppage-time winner in the 1999 final against Bayern Munich in Barcelona.

Solskjaer says it is the perfect time for Manchester United to play PSG

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that Paris St Germain will be unpredictable without their key players in the UEFA Champions League clash against the French club on Wednesday.&nbsp;

PSG will enter Old Trafford reeling from key injuries after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-psg-confirm-that-edinson-cavani-out-of-manchester-united-match-196879">Edinson Cavani</a> and Thomas Meunier joined star striker Neymar in being ruled out of the first-leg of last 16 against Manchester United.&nbsp;

"Any team that have are missing players like Neymar, (Edinson) Cavani, (Thomas) Meunier will feel the effect but that will give any of the other players a chance," said Solskjaer during a pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

"So for me it makes it maybe more unpredictable for us who they're going to play because when you've seen that front three for the whole season you know what to expect," he added.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cannot-replace-neymar-and-cavani-says-psg-coach-thomas-tuchel-ahead-of-ucl-tie-at-manchester-united-196891">'Cannot replace' Neymar and Cavani, says PSG coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of UCL tie at Manchester United</a>

"So this time around we're guessing a little bit how they're going to come. But we've got a good guesstimate on how they're approaching this game," said Solskjaer.&nbsp;

Solskjaer was in Lyon last weekend with assistant manager Mike Phelan to watch PSG in action in Ligue 1 but the Norwegian manager said he could not judge Thomas Tuchel's side based on their league form alone.&nbsp;

"It is difficult to compare games because when they play in the league, they know they are going to win it anyway," Solskjaer said ahead of the first leg of their last-16 meeting.

"So they approach it differently to the Champions League. You try to do due diligence."

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"We've given ourselves the best possible opportunity because of the way we've come into this game," Ole adds. "We're confident and we're looking like a team. If there was ever a time to go into big games, it's now." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/D4BIyrFrCZ">pic.twitter.com/D4BIyrFrCZ</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1094964820250685445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are&nbsp;hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years. &nbsp;

United's 3-0 win over Fulham on Saturday made it 10 wins and a draw from the 11 games since Solskjaer replaced Jose Mourinho in mid-December. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that Paris St Germain will be unpredictable without their key players in the UEFA Champions League clash against the French club on Wednesday.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that Paris St Germain will be unpredictable without their key players in the UEFA Champions League clash against the French club on Wednesday. PSG will enter Old Trafford reeling from key injuries after Edinson Cavani and Thomas Meunier joined star striker Neymar in being ruled out of the first-leg of last 16 against Manchester United. "Any team that have are missing players like Neymar, (Edinson) Cavani, (Thomas) Meunier will feel the effect but that will give any of the other players a chance," said Solskjaer during a pre-match press conference. "So for me it makes it maybe more unpredictable for us who they're going to play because when you've seen that front three for the whole season you know what to expect," he added. Also Read: 'Cannot replace' Neymar and Cavani, says PSG coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of UCL tie at Manchester United "So this time around we're guessing a little bit how they're going to come. But we've got a good guesstimate on how they're approaching this game," said Solskjaer. Solskjaer was in Lyon last weekend with assistant manager Mike Phelan to watch PSG in action in Ligue 1 but the Norwegian manager said he could not judge Thomas Tuchel's side based on their league form alone. "It is difficult to compare games because when they play in the league, they know they are going to win it anyway," Solskjaer said ahead of the first leg of their last-16 meeting. "So they approach it differently to the Champions League. You try to do due diligence." "We've given ourselves the best possible opportunity because of the way we've come into this game," Ole adds. "We're confident and we're looking like a team. If there was ever a time to go into big games, it's now." #MUFC pic.twitter.com/D4BIyrFrCZ — Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 11, 2019 × Let's do this, Reds! 🙌 #MUFC #UCL — Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 11, 2019 × Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years. United's 3-0 win over Fulham on Saturday made it 10 wins and a draw from the 11 games since Solskjaer replaced Jose Mourinho in mid-December.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'

All smiles at Man Utd: Here's how Solskjaer transformed Manchester United's fortunes

Manchester United caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was named January's Premier League manager of the month on Friday after an unbeaten start to his tenure at Old Trafford.

Solskjaer, who replaced Jose Mourinho in December, becomes the first United manager to receive the award since long-time boss Alex Ferguson in Oct. 2012, during the season when the club last won the league title.

United claimed 10 points from a possible 12 in January, with victories over Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton and Hove Albion, as well as a comeback draw at home against Burnley.

"We want to move up the table and this is the start of it," said Solskjaer, who has closed the gap between United and the top four teams in the division to two points.

"You cannot be a good leader or a manager without good players... so ultimately it's how they respond to what we tell them and they've been fantastic, so all credit to them."

United visit 19th-placed Fulham on Saturday.

Manchester United caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was named January's Premier League manager of the month on Friday after an unbeaten start to his tenure at Old Trafford.

Manchester United caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was named January's Premier League manager of the month on Friday after an unbeaten start to his tenure at Old Trafford. Solskjaer, who replaced Jose Mourinho in December, becomes the first United manager to receive the award since long-time boss Alex Ferguson in Oct. 2012, during the season when the club last won the league title. United claimed 10 points from a possible 12 in January, with victories over Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton and Hove Albion, as well as a comeback draw at home against Burnley. "We want to move up the table and this is the start of it," said Solskjaer, who has closed the gap between United and the top four teams in the division to two points. "You cannot be a good leader or a manager without good players... so ultimately it's how they respond to what we tell them and they've been fantastic, so all credit to them." United visit 19th-placed Fulham on Saturday.

Solskjaer named Premier League manager of the month for January

Manchester United will have an easy managerial decision on their hands if caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keeps building on his splendid start at Old Trafford, former England manager Steve McClaren has said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-fined-for-tax-fraud-in-spain-in-lieu-of-jail-time-195359">Having replaced Jose Mourinho</a> in December, Solskjaer has collected seven wins and a draw in the Premier League to guide a rejuvenated United to within two points of the top four.

United will appoint a new permanent manager at the end of the season and McClaren, who coached Solskjaer during United's treble-winning campaign as Alex Ferguson's assistant in 1999, said the Norwegian has exceeded expectations under pressure.

"I think everyone was astonished at the appointment," McClaren, who is currently in charge of Queens Park Rangers, told Sky Sports.&nbsp;

"(But) I know Ole well. He's a thinker and he's intelligent.&nbsp;

"They've played exciting, attacking, Manchester United old traditional football. And if it continues to work, I think Manchester United will have an easy decision to make at the end of the season."

After starting with a relatively comfortable run of fixtures, Solskjaer's United showed tactical maturity in away wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City, as well a commanding FA Cup fourth round win away at Arsenal.

Solskjaer's former teammate Jordi Cruyff said the former Cardiff manager has revived United by "unblocking the minds of the players".

"His work has been more mental, talking to the players and pressing the right buttons to get the best out of them," Cruyff told the BBC.

"The quality is there. They are good players. From the outside, he has touched their minds and put an arm around their shoulder.

"They really needed someone to stabilise things and give positive messages, outside and inside the club."

Manchester United will have an easy managerial decision on their hands if caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keeps building on his splendid start at Old Trafford, former England manager Steve McClaren has said.

Manchester United will have an easy managerial decision on their hands if caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keeps building on his splendid start at Old Trafford, former England manager Steve McClaren has said. Having replaced Jose Mourinho in December, Solskjaer has collected seven wins and a draw in the Premier League to guide a rejuvenated United to within two points of the top four. United will appoint a new permanent manager at the end of the season and McClaren, who coached Solskjaer during United's treble-winning campaign as Alex Ferguson's assistant in 1999, said the Norwegian has exceeded expectations under pressure. "I think everyone was astonished at the appointment," McClaren, who is currently in charge of Queens Park Rangers, told Sky Sports. "(But) I know Ole well. He's a thinker and he's intelligent. "They've played exciting, attacking, Manchester United old traditional football. And if it continues to work, I think Manchester United will have an easy decision to make at the end of the season." After starting with a relatively comfortable run of fixtures, Solskjaer's United showed tactical maturity in away wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City, as well a commanding FA Cup fourth round win away at Arsenal. Solskjaer's former teammate Jordi Cruyff said the former Cardiff manager has revived United by "unblocking the minds of the players". "His work has been more mental, talking to the players and pressing the right buttons to get the best out of them," Cruyff told the BBC. "The quality is there. They are good players. From the outside, he has touched their minds and put an arm around their shoulder. "They really needed someone to stabilise things and give positive messages, outside and inside the club."

Manchester United rebound makes Solskjaer favourite for hot seat: McClaren

Paul Pogba will be fit to return from injury for Manchester United's Premier League match at Tottenham this weekend, interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Thursday.

The France midfielder linked up late with his team-mates for a warm-weather training camp in Dubai this week after being injured in a challenge by Jonjo Shelvey during the 2-0 victory at Newcastle on January 2.

Pogba missed last Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup victory over Reading as a result of the knock, but trained well in the United Arab Emirates, according to Solskjaer.

"He looked OK towards the end, so he will be fit. He did have some problems but he came through last couple of sessions well, so he should be OK," the Norwegian said.

Solskjaer has made a perfect start as United's coach since replacing the sacked Jose Mourinho on December 19, winning each of his first five matches in charge.

The former United striker, who is on loan from Norwegian club Molde until the end of the season, has made clear since his return to Old Trafford he would love the manager's job on a permanent basis.

However, his opponent on Sunday, Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino, is believed by many observers to be the likeliest person to get the United job.

Solskjaer praised the Argentinian and justified the reports.

"He has done a very good job. That speculation is there for a reason -– because he has done well -– but it's not my job to rate managers. My focus is on me and my team."

Tottenham test

The interim boss, though, has rejected the idea that this match represents his first serious challenge in charge of United, following wins over Cardiff, Huddersfield, Bournemouth, Newcastle and Reading.

"We've had tests. Newcastle away is a test and the first game was a test as to how everyone reacted. The first home game with the crowd is a test," he said.

"We are not going to get as many chances to attack against these as we had before so when we have the ball we have to be ready to play well with it and we have to use the whole pitch because Wembley is a decent size pitch as well," he added.

One of United's biggest test will be containing the threat of Tottenham striker Harry Kane, the joint-leading scorer in this season's Premier League, with 14 goals.

"He's not bad is he? He is a fantastic goal scorer and one of the best in the world, but I have got a couple that I'm happy to work with," Solskjaer said

"He is a top professional. Sure, whoever plays with him and trains with him can talk more about him, but from the outside he is a fantastic finisher," the 1999 treble winner said.

Solskjaer, meanwhile, revealed defender Marcos Rojo has returned to his native Argentina as he continues to recover from a leg injury that has kept him out for a month.

"He has gone back to Argentina for a while because of his injury. How long will he be out for? How long is a piece of rope? For him it was mentally important to go away and come back fresh again."

Paul Pogba will be fit to return from injury for Manchester United's Premier League match at Tottenham this weekend, interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Thursday.

Paul Pogba will be fit to return from injury for Manchester United's Premier League match at Tottenham this weekend, interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Thursday. The France midfielder linked up late with his team-mates for a warm-weather training camp in Dubai this week after being injured in a challenge by Jonjo Shelvey during the 2-0 victory at Newcastle on January 2. Pogba missed last Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup victory over Reading as a result of the knock, but trained well in the United Arab Emirates, according to Solskjaer. "He looked OK towards the end, so he will be fit. He did have some problems but he came through last couple of sessions well, so he should be OK," the Norwegian said. Solskjaer has made a perfect start as United's coach since replacing the sacked Jose Mourinho on December 19, winning each of his first five matches in charge. The former United striker, who is on loan from Norwegian club Molde until the end of the season, has made clear since his return to Old Trafford he would love the manager's job on a permanent basis. However, his opponent on Sunday, Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino, is believed by many observers to be the likeliest person to get the United job. Solskjaer praised the Argentinian and justified the reports. "He has done a very good job. That speculation is there for a reason -– because he has done well -– but it's not my job to rate managers. My focus is on me and my team." Tottenham test The interim boss, though, has rejected the idea that this match represents his first serious challenge in charge of United, following wins over Cardiff, Huddersfield, Bournemouth, Newcastle and Reading. "We've had tests. Newcastle away is a test and the first game was a test as to how everyone reacted. The first home game with the crowd is a test," he said. "We are not going to get as many chances to attack against these as we had before so when we have the ball we have to be ready to play well with it and we have to use the whole pitch because Wembley is a decent size pitch as well," he added. One of United's biggest test will be containing the threat of Tottenham striker Harry Kane, the joint-leading scorer in this season's Premier League, with 14 goals. "He's not bad is he? He is a fantastic goal scorer and one of the best in the world, but I have got a couple that I'm happy to work with," Solskjaer said "He is a top professional. Sure, whoever plays with him and trains with him can talk more about him, but from the outside he is a fantastic finisher," the 1999 treble winner said. Solskjaer, meanwhile, revealed defender Marcos Rojo has returned to his native Argentina as he continues to recover from a leg injury that has kept him out for a month. "He has gone back to Argentina for a while because of his injury. How long will he be out for? How long is a piece of rope? For him it was mentally important to go away and come back fresh again."

Paul Pogba returns as Solskjaer eyes Manchester United job boost over rival Pochettino

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has suggested he will be judged on playing style rather than trophies if he is to land the Manchester United manager's job on a full-time basis.

Solskjaer, appointed as interim boss last month to replace the sacked Jose Mourinho, has made clear that he would love to stay at Old Trafford beyond the end of this season, when his temporary arrangement is set to expire.

The former United striker, on a managerial loan from Norwegian club Molde, has not spoken to executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward about a longer stay.

However, he feels that the key to being seen as a success is to return to the attractive, attacking football that the club played for much of Alex Ferguson's near 27-year reign as manager.

Ferguson won 38 trophies before retiring in 2013 but his United team were also renowned for their positive football, which many fans felt went missing in the final year of Mourinho's reign.

Solskjaer, when asked what would constitute success and improve his chances of getting the job permanently, said: "If we get to the summer and people are talking about the way Manchester United are playing.

"If the style we're playing, it reminds us of Sir Alex's team, if it reminds us of the successful times."

Solskjaer said he is keen to win trophies this season but suggested that the style, for now, was more important.

"It has to start with the way we play because results you cannot control," he said. "You can control how you approach the game and how you play.

Trophy hunt

"And of course, it's about trophies -- if you can get to the final of the FA Cup and get a trophy. Let's see in May if it's a success or not."

Solskjaer has won his first four matches at the helm, including a 2-0 victory at Newcastle on Wednesday, and hopes to extend that run when Championship strugglers Reading visit Old Trafford in the FA Cup on Saturday.

However, he expects there to be setbacks as he attempts to improve United's Premier League position from sixth over the second half of the season.

"When you win games of football, you're happy," he said. "There will be tougher times coming, there will be tougher games coming up, we know that.

"I thought the Newcastle game was a great example of us not just getting the first goal and sitting back to counter. We had to work for it and defend."

One of Solskjaer's priorities is to improve the players' fitness, something he plans to work on when he takes his squad to Dubai for a warm-weather training break after the Reading match.

The former United striker said that high-intensity fitness training was a key part of United's success under Ferguson, allowing them to build momentum late in the season when chasing trophies.

"We can get fitter and we have to do that through the training sessions here but Dubai is a good chance because now is the first time we get a week of work together," he said.

"I still have pictures in my mind every January, the gaffer (Ferguson) with the stopwatch timing us -- all of those runs," he added.

"That stood us in good stead towards the end of the season, so it is a time to work hard. Even though we've got plenty of games, we need to work."

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has suggested he will be judged on playing style rather than trophies if he is to land the Manchester United manager's job on a full-time basis.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has suggested he will be judged on playing style rather than trophies if he is to land the Manchester United manager's job on a full-time basis. Solskjaer, appointed as interim boss last month to replace the sacked Jose Mourinho, has made clear that he would love to stay at Old Trafford beyond the end of this season, when his temporary arrangement is set to expire. The former United striker, on a managerial loan from Norwegian club Molde, has not spoken to executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward about a longer stay. However, he feels that the key to being seen as a success is to return to the attractive, attacking football that the club played for much of Alex Ferguson's near 27-year reign as manager. Ferguson won 38 trophies before retiring in 2013 but his United team were also renowned for their positive football, which many fans felt went missing in the final year of Mourinho's reign. Solskjaer, when asked what would constitute success and improve his chances of getting the job permanently, said: "If we get to the summer and people are talking about the way Manchester United are playing. "If the style we're playing, it reminds us of Sir Alex's team, if it reminds us of the successful times." Solskjaer said he is keen to win trophies this season but suggested that the style, for now, was more important. "It has to start with the way we play because results you cannot control," he said. "You can control how you approach the game and how you play. Trophy hunt "And of course, it's about trophies -- if you can get to the final of the FA Cup and get a trophy. Let's see in May if it's a success or not." Solskjaer has won his first four matches at the helm, including a 2-0 victory at Newcastle on Wednesday, and hopes to extend that run when Championship strugglers Reading visit Old Trafford in the FA Cup on Saturday. However, he expects there to be setbacks as he attempts to improve United's Premier League position from sixth over the second half of the season. "When you win games of football, you're happy," he said. "There will be tougher times coming, there will be tougher games coming up, we know that. "I thought the Newcastle game was a great example of us not just getting the first goal and sitting back to counter. We had to work for it and defend." One of Solskjaer's priorities is to improve the players' fitness, something he plans to work on when he takes his squad to Dubai for a warm-weather training break after the Reading match. The former United striker said that high-intensity fitness training was a key part of United's success under Ferguson, allowing them to build momentum late in the season when chasing trophies. "We can get fitter and we have to do that through the training sessions here but Dubai is a good chance because now is the first time we get a week of work together," he said. "I still have pictures in my mind every January, the gaffer (Ferguson) with the stopwatch timing us -- all of those runs," he added. "That stood us in good stead towards the end of the season, so it is a time to work hard. Even though we've got plenty of games, we need to work."

Solskjaer says he will be judged on style at Manchester United

Manchester United interim coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer expects his players to relish the opportunity of playing at Old Trafford after scoring five goals in a Premier League match for the first time in five years.

Solskjaer's caretaker spell until the end of the season got off to an ideal start with a 5-1 win at Cardiff City on Saturday but United still remain eight points behind fourth-placed Chelsea in the table.

United have recorded only four wins in eight home league games this season, and Solskjaer has urged his players to step up to the plate when they host Huddersfield Town on Wednesday.

"I think the boys are looking forward to playing at Old Trafford and that's important," Solskjaer, who replaced the sacked Jose Mourinho last week, told reporters.

"It's not like they were outperforming themselves (at Cardiff). We'll evaluate, look at a few clips and as I said earlier we can do better, we can understand each other better."

United players, who appeared shackled by the pragmatic approach under Mourinho, enjoyed greater creative freedom at Cardiff as they netted five goals in a league match for the first time since Alex Ferguson's last game in charge in 2013.

Solskjaer, who won six Premier League titles under Ferguson, said it was critical his players respected the club's traditions by sticking to an attacking style of play.

"They've not said anything about any handbrake but we spoke today in the team meeting about how when we get one (goal), we want to get two. When we get two, we want to get three," Solskjaer added.

"The attacking philosophy is in the walls of Man United. That's tradition, that's history, that's how we want to play. This was a good reflection of what we want."

Manchester United interim coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer expects his players to relish the opportunity of playing at Old Trafford after scoring five goals in a Premier League match for the first time in five years.

Manchester United interim coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer expects his players to relish the opportunity of playing at Old Trafford after scoring five goals in a Premier League match for the first time in five years. Solskjaer's caretaker spell until the end of the season got off to an ideal start with a 5-1 win at Cardiff City on Saturday but United still remain eight points behind fourth-placed Chelsea in the table. United have recorded only four wins in eight home league games this season, and Solskjaer has urged his players to step up to the plate when they host Huddersfield Town on Wednesday. "I think the boys are looking forward to playing at Old Trafford and that's important," Solskjaer, who replaced the sacked Jose Mourinho last week, told reporters. "It's not like they were outperforming themselves (at Cardiff). We'll evaluate, look at a few clips and as I said earlier we can do better, we can understand each other better." United players, who appeared shackled by the pragmatic approach under Mourinho, enjoyed greater creative freedom at Cardiff as they netted five goals in a league match for the first time since Alex Ferguson's last game in charge in 2013. Solskjaer, who won six Premier League titles under Ferguson, said it was critical his players respected the club's traditions by sticking to an attacking style of play. "They've not said anything about any handbrake but we spoke today in the team meeting about how when we get one (goal), we want to get two. When we get two, we want to get three," Solskjaer added. "The attacking philosophy is in the walls of Man United. That's tradition, that's history, that's how we want to play. This was a good reflection of what we want."

Man United must relish Old Trafford, says coach Solskjaer

Manchester United's caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Thursday that he wanted to "get the players enjoying their football" after he returned to Old Trafford following the sacking of Jose Mourinho.

United have turned to their former Norway international striker Solskjaer on a deal until the end of the season to inject some life into what has been a fraught campaign.

The club parted company with Mourinho on Tuesday with the club in the sixth spot in the Premier League having made their worst start to a season for 28 years, culminating in a limp 3-1 loss to bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Mourinho's final few months in charge were dominated by media reports of his falling out with the club's 90 million pounds ($114 million) France midfielder Paul Pogba while his side laboured on the pitch playing dull defensive football.

Solskjaer, who as a player was part of United's era of dominance under Alex Ferguson and scored the goal that secured an unprecedented treble almost 20 years ago, wants to return a feel-good factor to their under-performing squad.

"I am just going to be myself... get the players enjoying their football and looking forward to seeing the supporters again," Solskjaer, 45, told MUTV on Thursday in his first interview as caretaker boss.

"We are in a results business and we want to win games and that is my job. We just want to see them play the football they can."

Solskjaer, who has left his role as manager of Norwegian club Molde, said the busy upcoming schedule of matches would give all of his squad a chance to impress him.

Their game on Saturday at Cardiff City, where Solskjaer was briefly manager in 2014, begins a run of five in 15 days.

“The amount of games coming up is no problem because we’ve got an amazing squad, we’ve got 23-24 players,” Solskjaer said.

“They are all quality and they’ll all get a chance now with the amount of games coming up. They’ve got a chance to show they are Man United players.”

Solskjaer's place in United's folklore means he is likely to receive a rapturous welcome when they play their next home match against Huddersfield Town on December 26.

The Norwegian, who was the hero on one of the club's most famous nights when got the winner in stoppage time as United completed a 2-1 comeback triumph over Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final, said he would relish his time in charge.

"As a player I gave everything I have and now walking out and leading this team and being part of this team. Playing for pride, history, it will be very special."

Manchester United's caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Thursday that he wanted to "get the players enjoying their football" after he returned to Old Trafford following the sacking of Jose Mourinho.

Manchester United's caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Thursday that he wanted to "get the players enjoying their football" after he returned to Old Trafford following the sacking of Jose Mourinho. United have turned to their former Norway international striker Solskjaer on a deal until the end of the season to inject some life into what has been a fraught campaign. The club parted company with Mourinho on Tuesday with the club in the sixth spot in the Premier League having made their worst start to a season for 28 years, culminating in a limp 3-1 loss to bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. Mourinho's final few months in charge were dominated by media reports of his falling out with the club's 90 million pounds ($114 million) France midfielder Paul Pogba while his side laboured on the pitch playing dull defensive football. Solskjaer, who as a player was part of United's era of dominance under Alex Ferguson and scored the goal that secured an unprecedented treble almost 20 years ago, wants to return a feel-good factor to their under-performing squad. "I am just going to be myself... get the players enjoying their football and looking forward to seeing the supporters again," Solskjaer, 45, told MUTV on Thursday in his first interview as caretaker boss. "We are in a results business and we want to win games and that is my job. We just want to see them play the football they can." Solskjaer, who has left his role as manager of Norwegian club Molde, said the busy upcoming schedule of matches would give all of his squad a chance to impress him. Their game on Saturday at Cardiff City, where Solskjaer was briefly manager in 2014, begins a run of five in 15 days. “The amount of games coming up is no problem because we’ve got an amazing squad, we’ve got 23-24 players,” Solskjaer said. “They are all quality and they’ll all get a chance now with the amount of games coming up. They’ve got a chance to show they are Man United players.” Solskjaer's place in United's folklore means he is likely to receive a rapturous welcome when they play their next home match against Huddersfield Town on December 26. The Norwegian, who was the hero on one of the club's most famous nights when got the winner in stoppage time as United completed a 2-1 comeback triumph over Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final, said he would relish his time in charge. "As a player I gave everything I have and now walking out and leading this team and being part of this team. Playing for pride, history, it will be very special."

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants Manchester United players to enjoy their football

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