Manchester United Fans Protests Affects Players, Says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

According to Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer protests against the club’s ownership have affected the players.

Solskjaer’s team was beaten by Leicester and Liverpool in the span of 50 hours last week, as a crowded fixture list combined with fan frustration caused their planning to be disrupted.

United’s players stayed in the stadium for hours, and beds were provided to them so they could rest ahead of the Liverpool game, which was feared to be marred by major protests.

“I didn’t want to use it as an excuse because we lost two games, but surely it’s the reason behind the performances,” he said.

“Physically it’s impossible to play at the intensity that’s required because of the amount of games. Then you look at the preparation in between and we haven’t had the recovery and the same routine as we normally would and we haven’t done the tactical preparation.”

United would finish second for just the second time since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 if they beat Fulham, whose relegation was announced over a week ago.

Solskjaer will then possibly rest all of his key players for the final-day trip to Wolves, which takes place four days before his side’s Europa League final against Villarreal in Gdansk.

“It’s never nice to see a club that is not united. We’re hoping Tuesday is going to be a positive day and that we move together.

“The mood in any club and the relationship between the team and the fans is vital to what happens on the pitch. Hopefully the players will give the fans a reason to cheer. That’s what we have to focus on.

“It’s a big game for us in that respect.”