Ole won’t be at the wheel but the Norwegian has given the green light for his Manchester United youngsters to roll into town for this summer’s STATSports SuperCupNI.
It was confirmed by organisers last night that Solskjaer’s young Red Devils will line up for another crack at the elusive Junior title at this year’s tournament.
We use the word elusive because despite lifting the Premier trophy an impressive six times from 12 appearances, United have never won the Junior crown.
Their only final appearance at the younger age level was back in 1994 when they lost 1-0 to Middlesbrough with a young David Healy in their ranks.
Solskjaer is well aware of the prestige of the tournament and was impressed by the scale and quality of the event when he opened it as a special guest in 2008.
The Old Trafford boss said: “The club has enjoyed a lot of success (at this tournament) in the past and it has played a big part in developing players at a young age.”
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United's support for the competition down the years is well documented with former boss Sir Alex Ferguson a fully committed backer of the event.
Tournament publicity officer Jim Sandford said: “It's always a huge honour to welcome our friends from Old Trafford.
“They have a special attraction for so many people here and we always like to spot a potential star of the future.”
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United will face some strong competition in the Junior competition with Rangers, Arsenal and Leeds United all involved.
Plymouth Argyle, Charlton Athletic and Wallsend Boys Club are also making the short trip from England.
Wallsend have a connection with the event through president Peter Kirkley who for many years brought Newcastle United teams to Northern Ireland.
Sandford said: "Peter is a highly respected figure in English football and we have been privileged to count on him as a friend of the tournament for many years.
"He is certain that the Wallsend squad will benefit from their experience with us."
The club, based in North Tyneside, was founded in 1904 and some of the North East's best known players came through its ranks including Alan Shearer and Michael Carrick.
Plymouth are regulars at the event and Charlton Athletic are past Junior winners having beaten Manchester City in the 2000 final.
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The STATSports SuperCupNI begins with the opening parade on July 28 and concludes with finals night at Ballymena Showgrounds on Friday, August 2.
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