Jesse Lingard: Manchester United star reveals reason Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should be made permanent boss

Jesse Lingard has backed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to become Manchester United’s permanent manager, claiming the Norwegian has brought back ‘the old school’ Red Devils.

United have been flying under the 45-year-old and are now in serious contention for a Champions League spot, having won eight of nine league matches since he took over in December.

Solskjaer is getting the best out of his team, particularly Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba – with the Frenchman admitting he would have considered leaving United if Jose Mourinho remained as manager.

And although Tottenham chief Mauricio Pochettino continues to be linked with the Old Trafford hot seat, Lingard says United will challenge for the title next season if Solskjaer gets offered the permanent job.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Lingard said: “Solskjaer and Mike Phelan have brought back the old school Manchester United.

“They know the league and the club inside out so to pass that on and get us playing how we are has been perfect.

“Solskjaer is doing very well. Nobody can fault him.

“He has taken a lot on but he already knew what he was doing when he came in. He got the players backing him straight away.

“He told us there are big expectations and pressure at this club but we have to deal with it and play like a real United team.

“We will challenge for the title next season if we carry on how we are now. We’re back to basics and winning games by grinding out results or scoring a lot of goals.

“As long as we’re winning games that’s all that matters.”

Lingard also revealed he is relishing the opportunity to play against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

He said: “You want to play in those big games – that’s why you play football. The bigger the games, the better. You can’t get bigger than facing PSG in the Champions League at Old Trafford.”

Meanwhile, Ander Hererra is set to offered be a new deal at Manchester United.

The Spanish midfielder, who is out of contract in the summer, has impressed Solskjaer over the past six weeks with his attitude.