OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER admits he is a big admirer of Jack Grealish as he prepares to go up against the Aston Villa ace on Thursday.
Manchester United have often been linked with a move for the England new boy in recent years.
But at Old Trafford on New Year’s Day they have to be sure he does not de-rail their Premier League title push.
He scored a memorable goal at the Theatre of Dreams last season as Villa earned a 2-2 draw.
And the 25-year-old has been in great form this season – helping Dean Smith’s men upto fifth place in the table.
Solskjaer said: “The goal he scored last season was a brilliant goal and we’ve faced him enough times to know it’s going to be a difficult game.
“He’s a player for Aston Villa and England who has only improved.
“I don’t want to say too much about other teams’ players but of course he’s a player we know we have to look for.”
A win for United would see them go level on points with leaders Liverpool with the half-way point of the season approaching.
But Solskjaer is taking nothing for granted against a team who have improved massively since they just avoided relegation last season.
He said: “They have been brilliant. I have to say Dean Smith has done a fantastic job.
“We played them pre-season and they beat us then in the one game we had before the league.
“We know all about how tough this is going to be.
“They’ve got individual players that are physically strong, defensively they have been one of the better teams in the league.
“When you beat Liverpool 7-2 it’s not just defending. It’s counter attack and quality players.
“That is maybe the game everyone will remember from this season.”
After celebrating two years in charge at United last week, Solskjaer is starting to notice changes in the mentality within his own squad.
And he hopes they will stand them in good stead as they look to maintain their title challenge going forward.
He added: “One, they’re two years older than when I came. Two, some of them are really strong personalities that we’ve brought in and they have been a really good influence.
We have competition for places which means you cannot go around and think you can just make your way being part of this team.
“You only deserve to be in a team that you contribute to.
“I think everyone has realised they are privileged to be part of Man United, such a fantastic club with a fantastic history.
“When you’re here enjoy it as much as you can and maybe you’ll experience some fantastic times.
“You’ve got winners like Juan Mata and Nemanja Matic. They don’t play every single game but they are so influential in the group and the build-up to games and during games when they’re not playing.”
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