MANCHESTER, England — New permanent Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has set himself the target of winning the Premier League trophy while warning his players that they will be shipped out if they slack off now he’s got the job full time.
Solskjaer has been rewarded for his impressive stint as caretaker boss — 14 wins from 19 games — with a three-year deal to become Jose Mourinho’s long-term successor.
And at a news conference on Thursday, the Norwegian admitted it has been too long since United’s last title win in 2013 while also cautioning his current squad against complacency.
“To lift the Premier League trophy again is what we expect, what we’re used to,” said Solskjaer, who won six titles as a United player.
“We can’t wait too many years but we have to take it step by step. It can’t happen overnight.
“Players who get complacent never last at this club. I’m the same — I can’t be complacent now I’ve got the job. That’s not me. We’re looking forward.
“We’ve got to work harder. I think the players know my expectations for the future.”
Speaking just hours after his confirmation in the job, Solskjaer admitted he has already had discussions with executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward about the players who could be coming and going this summer.
The 46-year-old is hopeful of having his new squad ready before the first game of the preseason tour against Perth Glory in Australia on July 13.
“There will be business this summer,” he said.
“There have been so many players written about that we’re interested in and players and agents getting in touch with our administrators who want to come in.
“I’m sure when we decide what we have to do hopefully we’ll get them by preseason, yeah.”
Despite Solskjaer’s confirmation on Thursday, there has been nothing official on his assistant, Mike Phelan.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s former No. 2 is still contracted to Central Coast Mariners but Solskjaer is hopeful he will also agree to extend his stay.
“Mick is a key part of the setup and they are talking to each other,” said Solskjaer.
“I’ve voiced my opinion and the set up we have now, the staff we have worked so well together and it is key to having success, to getting results. I’m not looking to make any changes there.”
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