Manchester United News: Solskjaer Makes Huge Harry Maguire, Paul Pogba Admission

Following a huge comeback win against Newcastle, Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer acknowledged the leadership of team captain Harry Maguire and revealed the reason behind Paul Pogba’s situation.

The Red Devils came in prepared at St. James’ Park Saturday and dominated Newcastle 4-1. The team is coming off a humiliating loss to Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and coach Solskjaer did a tremendous job leading his team back to its winning ways.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Solskjaer said that the victory marks the start of United’s season. He also put emphasis on the contribution of his resurgent team captain, Maguire, who scored a goal along with Bruno Fernandes, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Marcus Rashford.

"I think it was excellent," the coach said of Maguire’s performance. "Of course he scores a goal and leads by example. He’s always a very very good character, I am very happy for him. He had a couple of difficult weeks since he last played for us."

"The season started for us today," he added. "We have come up to the speed of the game and that showed today."

Almost every player in the team played well, but primary midfielder Pogba subbed in from the bench. According to Solskjaer, Pogba coming off the bench was for the best considering that the Frenchman has been in pain lately.

"Every single player here has to perform but Paul [Pogba] had hip and back problems when he was away with France, so it wasn't right to start him," Solskjaer revealed. "We have got big games coming up. Everyone has to perform when they come on. I am delighted for him."

Despite the stunning comeback victory, Solskjaer pointed out that United managed to edge Newcastle because of the team’s ability to bounce back. The 47-year-old admitted that early in the game, he felt they continued where they left off with Tottenham. However, they were fortunate to have a great leader in Maguire, who put his teammates back on track.

"After the last result, that made this game even bigger," Solskjaer admitted. "Then we were 1-0 down in two minutes, that made it even more so. But we showed great resilience, great character to come back, handled the setback really well and we were led by an inspirational captain."

Aside from Maguire, United’s new signing, Donny van de Beek, also showed his desire to win. In earlier reports, unnamed sources close to Van de Beek revealed that the Dutchman has been cooperative with United’s plans for him and “will play wherever the coach needs him,” specifically the left wing.

The Red Devils want to make the most out of Van de Beek and have even decided to put the former Ajax star on a “special training program” to bulk up.