Under-fire Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came out fighting - declaring Manchester United can win Saturday's Manchester derby and challenge for the Premier League title.
Solskjaer is under renewed pressure after United's midweek Champions League exit, with many fans having lost faith in their former striker's ability to lead the Reds back to the top.
But a win today would move United up to fourth, just two points behind leaders Tottenham with a game in hand, which is why Solskjaer is convinced a title push is possible.
“At Manchester United, you should always aim to win trophies,” said Solskjaer.
“Of course, with the last three seasons, as they have been, there's been two teams far ahead of the rest of the pack.
“But I got belief during the season, or since the turn of the year, that this team is improving and that we can put up a challenge.
“Of course we need to improve on last season, but I don't think any team will run away with it.
“I go into every single game wanting to win and feeling that we can win, and if you win every game you end up with a trophy.”
Solskjaer refused to condemn Paul Pogba, after the midfielder's agent Mino Raiola chose the eve of the crunch Champions League tie at RB Leipzig to declare his desire to leave.
But Solskjaer chose to praise Pogba and said: “I said during the week that this is a team game and Paul is part of this team.
"He's very focused on contributing when he's here. He's got the hunger and appetite to play and wants to play.
“He wants to train and he trains. There's been other players refusing to train and refusing to play - they're not here any more of course - but Paul's not once done that.
“He's just focused on performing when he gets a chance. That's the good thing about Paul.
"He's got the quality and the desire to do well when he comes on, like he did against Leipzig. He had a positive impact. He's part of the squad for tomorrow.”
Can United challenge for the title? Have your say here.
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