Reflections on Solskjaer’s first year

For the fan, the last few matches are always at the forefront of the mind. And, fairly or not, players and managers are usually defined by the results they’ve captured in recent weeks.

Encouragingly for us, United’s final game before the enforced break – a 5-0 dismantling of LASK in a behind-closed doors contest –  made it 11 games undefeated for Ole, comprising eight wins and three draws, plus 29 goals and nine clean sheets.

There was a great sense of momentum, as evidenced by that Manchester derby win at Old Trafford, and the connection between players and fans that undoubtedly carried us through those last few minutes.

But to judge Solskjaer’s reign as manager, you need to step back and take a broader glance. 

There have been massive changes in a very short space of time and, in my opinion, Ole and his assistants deserve massive credit. 

Firstly, for being brave enough to make some bold decisions. And, secondly, for managing to keep things driving forward amid the kind of teething problems that will inevitably occur when you attempt to reshape a club.