We could not lose Fletcher! – Solskjaer delighted by Man Utd appointments

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has praised the two appointments made by Manchester United in a major restructure at the club.

United installed former player Darren Fletcher as technical director and promoted John Murtough to the new role of football director in an announcement on Wednesday.

Fletcher, who won five Premier League titles as a United player over the course of 12 years, returned to the club as a youth coach in October before being promoted to the first-team setup in January.

He now has a new role in the structure to support Solskjaer, who was pleased to see the former Scotland international moved into a senior position along with Murtough.

“I am very happy we have made this decision and appointment,” Solskjaer said ahead of United hosting Milan in the Europa League last-16 first leg.

“I have known John since I came and it is now more of a formal role. He has been working well behind the scenes – he is a cultural fit.

“Very happy with what we have. Continuity and fresh ideas.

“A few months back when we were making a final decision there were other things in pipeline for Fletcher.

“One thing I was sure of was we could not lose Darren. He has got fresh ideas. He has a bright eye for football, a really keen eye.

“Now a little bit less coaching [for him] and more influence on the other side – go speak to players and sell Man United as the club he knows.”

“I’m delighted with the announcement of Darren Fletcher and John Murtough,” says Ole.

“He went from a young man to a Champions League winner here, and he has a bright eye for football so he can have an impact.”#MUFC pic.twitter.com/iiB4GsxxRr

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 10, 2021

Solskjaer was asked about how the changes would affect United’s activity in the transfer market at the end of the season.

The United boss added: “It will be an interesting window.

“Of course everyone in world football is affected by the pandemic.

“The process of our recruitment is still going to be the same with new roles. Work we have been doing for years now anyway.

“The communication is very good and we are always looking to add quality to the squad.”

A blockbuster tie against Milan will be the 11th meeting between the two teams, but the first to take place outside of the Champions League.

United have been eliminated from four of their five knockout ties with Milan, but go into the contest at Old Trafford on a high after their stunning 2-0 win at Manchester City in Sunday’s derby.

Captain Harry Maguire senses a strong belief within the squad amid a gruelling fixture calendar.

“When you win the big games against the top teams it gives us confidence that we know we can beat anyone,” he said. “We have felt that for around a year now.

“Of course you are expected to win trophies at this club. It is really important. We are playing for three competitions.

“If I need a rest I will speak to the manager, but I am used to it now. I feel good physically and the more we win the better I will feel mentally. I’ll rest when I’m retired!”