21 Oct Molde appoint Solskjaer before Celtic game

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been named the manager of Molde – just 24 hours before the Norwegians are set to face Celtic in the Europa League.

The former Manchester United striker has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at the Aker Stadion and replaces caretaker boss Erling Moe following Tor Ole Skullerud’s dismissal in August.

“I promised the family that I would take a year off, but then I started to get hungry for more work at the highest level,” said Solskjaer.

“The facilities and the mentality is already there, as is the quality of the players [at Molde].

“This will be a fantastic game for the players and everyone connected to the club. We are up against a top international team, and the players are looking forward to it.”

It’s Solskjaer’s second stint at the club as manager where he made a name for himself as a player, scoring 31 goals in 38 games before sealing a move to United in 1996.

Solskjaer also enjoyed success as a coach with Molde, winning the Tippeligaen in 2011 and 2012 and the Norwegian Cup in 2013 before a disappointing spell at Cardiff City.

The 42-year-old takes over with the Norwegian champions sitting seventh in the league with three games remaining. In Europe, however, they top Group A after victory over Fenerbahce and a draw with Ajax.

They welcome Celtic on Thursday, who have taken two points from their opening two games.

“Of course I haven’t prepared really well for the Celtic game,” Solskjaer said. “I’ve seen Celtic play Malmo, actually both games, so I’m not blank. I’ll watch a few games and be ready.

“If you win this game and you’ve got seven points after three matches, you have a great chance of going through.

“I’m looking forward to seeing my lads playing again. Of course football is more enjoyable when you win games.”