Solskjaer urges Man Utd to do Munich victims proud with rousing performance against Everton on anniversary of disaster
OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has called on Manchester United to honour those who perished in the Munich air disaster with a fitting performance against Everton.
It is only the fourth time United have actually played on the anniversary of the tragedy that killed 23, including eight of the Busby Babes.
There will be a minute’s silence before the Old Trafford clash with both captains laying wreaths in memory of those who died and both sides will wear black armbands.
United boss Solskjaer said: “It’s only the fourth time the game is played on the actual anniversary.
“And it’s important we put on a fitting performance and hopefully we can honour them with the result.”
Solskjaer says new players are always educated about the disaster and the importance of the anniversary each year.
He said: “It’s such an important part of the history of our club and we have spoken to the players who come into the club, who’ve not been here, and are part of this anniversary.
“It’s a big day for everyone and has always been an emotional one.
“Hopefully we can put a team out that shows the Manchester United spirit.”
They certainly did just that in the midweek with a thumping record equalling 9-0 Premier League win over Southampton.
It left them on the heels of neighbours Manchester City, who lead the table, and put them back on track after dropping five points with a home defeat to Sheffield United and goalless draw at Arsenal.
In the Premier League, United are top of the away form table with eight wins and three draws – but only fifth on home form having lost five times.
Now Solskjaer wants to see his side build Old Trafford back into a fortress.
He said: “Consistency of course is vital.
“We’ve done really well away from home and bounced back after the Sheffield United defeat.
“So we are ready to kick on and get some momentum. If we get the consistency and morale and confidence up, who knows?
“It’s about doing the right things and creating good habits every day on the training pitch.”
The game will be Solskjaer’s 100th as a Premier League manager, including his spell at Cardiff, and he admits he’s a very different coach now to the one that oversaw the Bluebirds’ relegation from in 2014.
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He said: “I’m a bit older and wiser hopefully, and a lot more grey up top, but I’ve really enjoyed it.
“From when I was with Cardiff it is a different ball game. The players get better and better, fitter and fitter, it is more tactical.
“I’ve enjoyed, not every game because you don’t enjoy defeats, but testing yourself against good coaches and managers.”
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