Solskjaer denies Ferguson presence

It has been reported that Sir Alex has been an influential figure to the Manchester United squad since Jose Mourinho's departure in December. Solskjaer contests this, however, saying his appearances at the training ground have been limited, and denies that the Scot is pulling the strings behind the scenes. 

"We don't speak weekly," said Solskjaer. "I haven't spoken to him many times. He has been in to visit us just once - he has been to see [former player, Giuseppe] Rossi once. The influence is more my 15 years under him. He is 77, it is not fair to him either is it?"

The Norwegian also adds that he has benefited from his predecessors Jose Mourinho, Louis Van Gaal and David Moyes.

"The past three managers have passed on so much knowledge that the players know they will have it in the locker because every day is an experience."

Solskjaer has lead United to seven successive wins since taking over as caretaker boss, and has closed the gap on the top four from 11 to three points. They next travel to Arsenal in the FA Cup, where they will be looking to book a place in the fifth round.