Solskjaer SACKED as Man Utd manager after humiliating defeat at Watford with Rodgers and Zidane linked with job

OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER has been sacked by Manchester United following Saturday’s humiliating defeat at Watford.

The Red Devils were humbled at Vicarage Road by Claudio Ranieri’s side with captain Harry Maguire also sent off.

ReutersMan Utd have sacked Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following their defeat to Watford[/caption]

The result was United’s FIFTH Premier League defeat of the season under Solskjaer.

And having also won just five other games, the Norwegian has now been given his marching orders – nearly three years since taking over as caretaker boss.

In a classy statement United thanked Solskjaer for his ‘tireless efforts’ – before confirming that they will appoint an interim manager until the end of the season – with Michael Carrick taking charge in the meantime.

They wrote: “Ole will always be a legend at Manchester United and it is with regret that we have reached this difficult decision.

“While the past few weeks have been disappointing, they should not obscure all the work he has done over the past three years to rebuild the foundations for long-term success.

“Ole leaves with our sincerest thanks for his tireless efforts as Manager and our very best wishes for the future.

“His place in the club’s history will always be secure, not just for his story as a player, but as a great man and a Manager who gave us many great moments.

“He will forever be welcome back at Old Trafford as part of the Manchester United family.

“Michael Carrick will now take charge of the team for forthcoming games, while the club looks to appoint an interim manager to the end of the season.”

The decision came after United’s board called an emergency meeting immediately after the Hornets humiliation.

United fans will now be eagerly awaiting news of Solskjaer’s replacement.

Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers has been strongly linked with the post.

And Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane is also thought to be in the running.

The Old Trafford hierarchy is said to be ramping up efforts to bring the Frenchman in now to save their season.

But Zidane, 49, is said to prefer to wait until the summer so he will have time to prepare his new squad – and enjoy his prolonged holiday since leaving the Bernabeu in May.

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