Norway Boss Wants Solskjaer Caution
Slow Return?
By Chris O'Brien
February 15 2004
Norway boss Age Hareide is hoping that Ole Solskjaer is not rushed back into first-team action for United. The 30-year-old has been out of action for six months, and Hareide wants to be sure Solskjaer is at peak fitness before returning, surely with one eye on Norway's World Cup qualifying campaign.
| Norway Boss Wants Solskjaer Caution |
| Norway manager Age Hareide has pleaded
with United boss Sir Alex Ferguson not to rush Ole Gunnar Solakjer back into
first-team action. The versatile forward has not played first-team football since September after undergoing knee surgery, but looks set to be re-called to the match-day squad after coming through a reserve team game without any problems last week. The Norwegian international is likely to take part in another reserve outing before United's physiotherapists deem him fit to play for the first-team, but it is hoped the fan favourite will be back in action by the end of February. However, Hareide wants Solskjaer to remain on the sidelines until he has definitely recovered to 100% full fitness. The 30-year-old was not included in the Norwegian squad for their upcoming friendly against Northern Ireland, and the national team manager is in no hurry to see is prize asset playing first-team football again. "The match in Belfast is far too early for Ole Gunnar to make his comeback for Norway," said Hareide. "I have told Solskjaer and Sir Alex that it is a bad idea to bring him back too soon. He has to be treated very carefully. "I will be following his development closely. He is vital for the Norwegian side and it is important that there aren't any foolish mistakes made." |