Football NewsSolskjaer backs Eric Bailly to fill Maguire’s boots at United
Bailly

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer backs Ivorian Eric Bailly to find his feet and fill Harry Maguire’s boots.

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Solskjaer thinks Bailly and Victor Lindelof is just a matter of time before the two partners produce a solid defense. The Norwegian calls on Eric to rise to the occasion on Maguire’s absence but have not impressed yet.

Speaking ahead of Fulham’s Old Trafford visit and fans’ return, Solskjaer explains that Maguire is concentrating on his recovery. He added that Bailly steps in both in and off the pitch.

“He (Maguire) has been the one taking charge off the pitch as well. Now his time is focused more on recovering and trying to get back for the final. But Victor is vocal,” Solskjaer explained.

“Eric has come in and is finding his feet. Of course, the more he plays, the better he will be as well,” he added.

He admits thing hasn’t worked out well yet but is confident his players will step up and gain momentum.

“We have not had great results in the last couple but these players have been training together all year. We want to step it up and get momentum going,” Solskjaer admitted.

Despite the former Molde tactician hinting on Eric-Lindelof’s partner against Fulham, Axel Tuanzebe was named to pair Lindelof.

Meanwhile, Solskjaer reflects on the departures of Romelu Lukaku, Ashley Young, and Alexis Sanchez. Despite labeling them top players and top professionals, he insists that he wanted to have a different team.

“Every manager has their own focus and priorities. Those players are top players, top professionals. You can look at them and wish them all the best. But I made a decision, together with the club, that I wanted to have a different team,” Solskjaer insisted.

“I’m not the one to talk about the evolution and compare one team to another. The proof is in the results,” he added.