Solskjaer relishing Manchester United’s first meeting with Leeds United in over nine years

The Red Devils will face Bielsa’s side for the first time since September 2011 when Sir Alex Ferguson’s men ran away 3-0 winners in the League Cup fourth round.

“I can’t wait,” said Solskjaer in his press conference ahead of the clash. “It’s been too long, of course. I know how much it means for our supporters, I know how much it means for our club. It’s a different type of Leeds coming up with a coach that’s really done a great job with them and will test us to the limit.”

Ole recalled a fond memory from a 4-3 win at Elland Road in March 2002 where he bagged a double alongside goals from Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

“There are many memories. I enjoyed scoring two goals in a win at Elland Road. I came on as a sub and it was a header at the back stick from a cross from Ryan Giggs and I headed back to the other side.”

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Manchester United have won just one game and kept two clean sheets at home this season, something which United’s Norwegian manager will look to improve on Sunday.

In the pre-match press conference, the United boss told the media that striker Edinson Cavani will be available for the fixture after participating in training that day.

The positive news comes just after the Uruguayan was charged by the FA over a social media post following United’s 3-2 comeback win against Southampton. Solskjaer told the press he hopes the striker will be able to avoid a ban.

BREAKING: #MUFC striker Edinson Cavani has been charged by the Football Association over a social media post last month.

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) December 17, 2020

Leeds could move out of the bottom half of the Premier League table with a win, who will be confident after their 5-2 rout against Newcastle in midweek.

The home side could climb as high as second with a win if results go in their favour, and still have a game in hand against Burnley to be played.

Manchester United defensive pair Axel Tuanzebe and Eric Bailly are expected to be match fit and in the squad for Sunday’s clash, while Marcelo Bielsa confirmed his Leeds team have no injury worries heading into the game.

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