Ole Gunnar Solskjaer cannot wait to lead Manchester United out at Old Trafford for the first time – and he believes his side are ready to put on a Boxing Day show.
Having been parachuted in as caretaker manager for the rest of the season, the fan favourite got the post-Jose Mourinho era off to a dream start.
United ran amok at Solskjaer’s former club Cardiff, scoring five goals in a Premier League match for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in May 2013 as they left the Welsh capital buoyed by a 5-1 win.
Boxing Day offers an opportunity to secure another exciting win as struggling Huddersfield arrive at Old Trafford for a match that will leave the Norwegian pinching himself as he manages “back home” in the hotseat.
“Of course, you try to keep your emotion in check because I’m there to do a job, I’ve got to be focused,” Solskjaer said.
“It’s not easy, I don’t think it will be easy, but I’m looking forward to it and I think the boys are looking forward to playing at Old Trafford.
“That’s the key, we should be looking forward to playing there.
“I was sat next to Rene Meulensteen in a reserve-team game once as a coach, second half, and I was there with Cardiff. But, of course, it will be special.”
Solskjaer is looking to become just the fifth manager in United’s history to kick off their reign with back-to-back league wins – a result that would provide another timely shot in the arm.
United have managed to win just five of 12 matches at Old Trafford in all competitions so far in this disappointing campaign, with the pressure appearing to be too much for players at times.
“That comes when you sign for Man United,” Solskjaer said. “You know you’re going to play in front of the best fans in the world.
“Confidence is not something you store into the fridge and pick out.
“You earn it by your performances, by your training, how you feel. Hopefully this gave them a boost, so I’m happy and looking forward to Boxing Day.”