Ole Ole!

Manchester United reserve team manager Ole Gunnar Solksjaer kindly took the time to speak exclusively to www.clydefc.co.uk, ahead of his trip North to face Clyde at Broadwood on Sunday.

The Norwegian legend spoke enthusiastically about the encounter:-

“I’m delighted to be coming North again. Usually we play matches like this during pre-season but the manager asked for this to happen and we are all looking forward to going to Cumbernauld.

“As a player I rarely got the opportunity to come to Scotland but as a coach I’ve been up a few times and the game is something that we will enjoy. Sometimes training is focussed on 5 or 7-a-side matches so this is also a welcome break for the boys.”

In terms of his players and the team that would be appearing at Broadwood, Ole gave his thoughts:-

“I’ll meet with Sir Alex on Thursday to confirm what players will be travelling. Many of our squad are on International duty at the moment so we will assess them on their return. It’s then that the manager will also consider if there are any first team players who need some extra minutes; Obertan and Da Silva are a couple examples of players who may feature. However, because of our Premier League and Champions League commitments it will predominantly be a squad of younger players, as opposed to the last time we came to Broadwood when it was the established first team squad.

“The match represents a different challenge for the boys. Clyde may not be at he same level but they will be strong, enthusiastic and determined. As a norm our team usually plays against other under-18 sides or reserve sides; the Clyde team will be a bit older and have different experience which is all good for their education.

“It is important that we are also up to the challenge – this is a welcome alternative to the games we normally face and will be a good test for the squad.”

When asked about his outlook on the game and his move into coaching, Ole seemed to have a clear idea of how he felt things should be done:-

“I’m really enjoying my coaching. Time ticks on for everyone and you learn that your body can’t hold up to the pace of first team football so this is a definite career path for me. My philosophy is the Man Utd philosophy of attacking football and quick counter attacking. I demand a lot of the players. I’m always instilling into the boys that every day is important and that they cannot afford to let their standards drop. Players have to be dedicated and give it their all in each match or training session.

“We work to ensure they get a good education at Old Trafford on and off the pitch so that even if they don’t make it at Man Utd they will have a good career elsewhere. So part of our job as coaches is to give advice, talk to the players and ensure that they approach all challenges in the right way.”

Ole concluded with a message for supporters as Sunday fast approaches…

“I just hope people turn up in good numbers for this occasion in order to help Clyde put some money in the coffers. We are delighted to help and will play our part by coming to Broadwood with the correct attitude to play good football and make it a memorable afternoon for all football fans.”

Don’t forget that admission to the match, which kicks-off at 3pm, is by pay-at-the-gate and priced at just £10 for adults and £5 for under-16s.