Solskjaer comeback boosts Man Utd

Solskjaer showed his old physical and mental sharpness

Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could provide a solution to Manchester United's striking problems.

Solskjaer, who has missed almost two seasons through injury, scored twice in United's 4-0 win over Orlando Pirates.

With Ruud van Nistelrooy primed to leave Old Trafford, Ferguson said: "Ole back in action is like a new signing.

"At the moment we only have Saha and Rooney, we don't know where Ruud will be so Ole could be the third striker."

United risk beginning their Premiership campaign undermanned in the striking department, with Alan Smith still completing his recovery from a broken leg.

Promising forward Giuseppe Rossi could be allowed a loan move to gain some experience.

Ferguson said: "Over the years we have always had four strikers but we are considering whether to let Giuseppe leave on loan and Alan won't be back until the end of August, even if we consider him as a striker."

But Ferguson needs little reminding of Solskjaer's qualities as a penalty-box predator.

The United boss said: "Sometimes forwards freeze in front of goal but Ole warms up.

"When he got that first chance, you just knew Ole was going to take it.

I've missed the last two pre-seasons so I've been looking forward to this Man Utd striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

"There are very few players in our game who you feel so confident about doing that."

Solskjaer was given a new two-year contract in March but the inclusion of a club ambassadorial role hinted that his playing role could be wound down.

But the Norwegian striker has proved his determination to mount a comeback.

The 33-year-old has suffered two years of injury misery with a succession of knee injuries, hamstring problems and a fractured cheekbone which stalled his comeback at the end of last season.

Ferguson said: "I think 45 minutes was just about enough for him, there's no point in pushing him at the moment.

"We hoped he would get through pre-season training but he's taken part in every session and was really looking forward to the game."

Solskjaer attempted to put things in perspective after negotiating his first complete pre-season for three years.

He said: "I've missed the last two pre-seasons so I've been looking forward to this for a long time.

"The main thing now is getting match fitness and getting ready for 19 August, but a goal or two helps. It's been a while since I got one for the first team.

"With players being away after the World Cup, it's important for those of us who didn't go to have a good pre-season to put a bit of pressure on them when they come back."