The Red Devils have won only two of eight matches this term to sit in 12th, and they could even end the weekend in the relegation places if results don’t go their way.
United take on Liverpool on Sunday in their biggest match of the season so far, and the odds are against them upsetting Jurgen Klopp’s league leaders at Old Trafford.
The Reds are riding high at the top of the table and really believe they can finally get their hands on a long-awaited Premier League title, while United are lacking confidence and character under Solskjaer.
But the Norwegian says he’s been surprised by the feeling of positivity around the place throughout the international break, having headed into the fortnight off on the back of a shock 1-0 defeat by Newcastle.
“Of course there’s been loads of players away but the mood here is always good,” said Solskjaer in his press conference.
“We’ve come a long way on what you call the culture. The environment we’re working in is positive.
“The staff and players know when it’s Liverpool coming up it’s a game that’s going to be watched by so many, and when you sign for Manchester United this is the first one you look forward to against one of the main rivals. It’s a chance for them to – as I did, a couple of times – get in the history books.
“The mood in a football club is always affected by results but it’s been better than expected here. People you meet can see what we’re trying to do but winning games is the biggest thing, that breeds confidence
“It’s a determined bunch of players and club but you can’t say we walk around smiling all the time.”
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- Cardiff vs Sheffield Wednesday (Friday, 7:45pm) – talkSPORT 2
- Everton vs West Ham (Saturday, 12:30pm) – talkSPORT
- Blackburn vs Huddersfield (Saturday, 12:30pm) – talkSPORT 2
- Tottenham vs Watford (Saturday, 3pm) – talkSPORT 2
- Crystal Palace vs Man City (Saturday, 5:30pm) – talkSPORT
- Wigan vs Nottingham Forest (Sunday, 2pm) – talkSPORT 2
Solskjaer also discussed other topics during his press conference, and you can read the best bits, below…
Injury latest
“Of course I would like to tell you positive news. Hopefully we’ll see on Sunday who’s come through the last two sessions because there are players that just started training on the verge of coming back, so I can’t really say.
“I don’t expect [David de Gea] to play but it wasn’t as bad as feared. When I saw the game I thought, ‘that’s him out until the next international break’. But it’s not as bad as feared.”
On facing Liverpool
“They’re doing well in the league, that’s for sure, but we’re looking forward to this game. It’s the perfect game for the players and fans. We’ve had a difficult time lately and I’m sure we’ll give them a good game.”
On his early record being better than Klopp’s at Liverpool
“I don’t hold onto stats like that and I’m just working as planned… business as usual. I try to improve the team, try to work towards something, and of course we’re heading somewhere. But we need results and I expect the players to come out and prove why they’re at Man United.”
One being backed by Ed Woodward
“I speak to Ed loads of times and we do have a plan. We have made some decisions in the short-term that harm us but in the long-term would benefit us, and that’s part of the plan. Besults are always the main thing and we can move forward quicker with results and performances.
“I am sure we will get there. But there is planning for the next transfer window and the summer transfer window.”
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