OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER says defender Marcos Rojo has put the fear into Manchester United’s training sessions – and he loves him for it.
Rojo was set to leave in a 25million deal to Everton last summer but United chief Solskjaer has put the block on any switch in January.
The defender, who can play left-back or centre-half, has hit top form – and that has convinced Solskjaer to keep him at Old Trafford.
Solskjaer said: “You know hes got such a big heart and such a passion for football and hes a winner.
“To have him around when hes fit and in a good mood, good form, has been great for us.
“The boys love him, he spreads fear in training sometimes because he tackles properly.
“Hes one of the ones who really, really cares about this game.
“I think hes taking his opportunities every time hes played.
“He did it against Liverpool fantastic, he wasnt happy he didnt play against Bournemouth of course.”
The South American’s excellent displays mean Solskjaer can divert cash for a new left-back to other areas of the team which need strengthening.
He already has Luke Shaw and Ashley Young in that full-back position.
But crucially, Rojo has provided competition for places at the heart of the back four with Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Phil Jones and, once fit, Eric Bailly, all challenging for places.
However, Rojo’s Solskjaer love-in will keep him ahead of his rivals.
He joined United in a 16m deal from Sporting Lisbon in 2014.
The Norwegian added: “Hes played maybe more than he expected but thats why hes still here.
“Hes a top-quality footballer. Hes a winner, good mentality, he can pass, he can defend.
“Its now about keeping him fit and hes been fit now for a long, long time and you can see his qualities.”
