By Editor
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer recently admitted that he did not have the answer to Alexis Sanchez struggles at Manchester United after the winger failed to make an impact against Paris Saint-Germain. Ever since he left Arsenal in an uncelebrated manner to join the ‘enemy’, as Arsenal fans would argue, he has been a fringe player at United.
Even at the game with PSG, Sanchez came in as a sub to replace the injured Jesse Lingard just before half-time on Tuesday night but the Chilean was largely ineffective as PSG scored twice within 15 minutes of the restart at Old Trafford. He looked forlorn on the pitch as always. United fans and owners are beginning to think the heavy wage they pay him is a complete waste of resources.
Solskjaer has inspired an upturn in form for several United players since he was installed as caretaker coach on December 19 but the former Arsenal man is still struggling to find his best form. The 30-year-old has only made three starts under Solskjaer amid injury issues and a lack of form.
Sanchez may start the FA Cup fifth round tie at Chelsea on Monday if Martial and Lingard fail to recover but Solskjaer insists he is powerless to improve him. ‘I can’t do anything about Alexis Sanchez,’ Solskjaer said. ‘When he plays he needs to find himself because we know there’s a quality player there.’Solskjaer admitted PSG’s 2-0 victory provided a ‘reality check’ for United, who had not lost since Jose Mourinho’s last match in charge at Liverpool on December 16.
He said: ‘Today we weren’t at their level. This is a level up from what we’ve played against, the games we’ve had. We had a great run. ‘We came into the game in a great frame of mind and great form but of course it was a big step up. ‘They have quality from the ‘keeper to the striker. There is a reason why they are favourites for the Champions League. That’s the level we need to aim for. ‘
