Man Utd: Solskjaer says team were 'not tired' against Wolves
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has once again rejected Robin van Persie’s criticism of his style in a strong defence of his motivational skills. On Wednesday night, Van Persie called on Solskjaer to show more anger and not smile, especially after a defeat.
Solskjaer responded on Friday by insisting his approach would not be from the “medieval times” and Van Persie had no right to criticise him.
Manchester United were held to a goalless draw by Wolves in the third round of the FA Cup and they failed to have a shot on target.
In an interview with Norwegian television channel Viasport, Solskjaer was asked again about Van Persie’s comments and came out strongly.
“There are different ways to motivate and inspire players, and I do not always believe in scaring them to play better. After all, we are in 2020,” he said.
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Harry Maguire is a doubt to face Man City on Tuesday (Image: GETTY)
Of more pressing concern to Solskjaer will be the possibility of being without Harry Maguire for Tuesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Manchester City.
The centre-back appeared to be struggling with a hip problem following a first-half tackle on Adama Traore.
Phil Jones had an extensive warm-up on the sidelines but never came on as Maguire played through the pain barrier.
But Maguire decision to continue may have come at a cost to United.
When asked by BT Sport if Maguire would be fit, Solskjaer said: “I don’t know.
“We were close to taking him off at half-time, but he battled through. Let’s see how he recovers. We hope so.“
Solskjaer was asked again about Maguire’s condition in an interview with MUTV and added: “We were not sure if he should continue in the second half, but he was adamant he was going to be OK.
“He struggled a little bit but let's see how he'll recover. It's not many days, it's Sunday, Monday and then we go again Tuesday.”