Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made an immediate impact following his arrival at Manchester United.His two matches in charge have yielded six points, eight goals and standout performances from Paul Pogba.The Frenchman, like many of his teammates, is now playing with the freedom that wasn’t seen under Jose Mourinho this season.The shackles are off, and that’s a direct result of Solskjaer encouraging his players to play without restrictions.Of course, tougher tests will come. Solskjaer has overseen matches against Cardiff City and Huddersfield Town, both of whom will spend the campaign fighting relegation.But it’s a positive start in what Man United supporters hope will be a successful second half of the campaign.With the full backs now swarming forward and pressure being applied all over the pitch, Solskjaer’s side are playing with the same attacking intent that Sir Alex Ferguson delivered.

Solskjaer's comment about Sir Alex

The Norwegian admitted last week that he bases his managerial style on Ferguson and he showed just how much he respects the legendary manager in his press conference following the 3-1 win against Huddersfield on Boxing Day.

As the assembled journalists settled in their seats, Solskjaer broke the silence by saying: “The boss asks how you’re doing and if you’re missing him.”

One of the journalists asked Solskjaer which boss he was referring to.

“There’s only one,” came the 45-year-old’s reply.

Class.

Solskjaer’s comment, a clear reference to Sir Alex, went down very well with Man United supporters.

For many, Solskjaer’s return to the club as caretaker manager is as much about bringing the old principles back to the club as it is being successful on the pitch.

Finishing in the top four will be difficult; the Red Devils are sixth, eight points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea.

But if Solskjaer can get fans out of their seats and the players to understand the honour that is playing for Man United, then the groundwork will be laid for a successful future under Mourinho’s permanent successor.