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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…

In the aftermath of the whole Manchester United penalty fiasco against Wolves on Monday night, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s attempt to clear up the situation arguably raised more questions than it answered. The Norwegian insisted both Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford were designated spot-kick takers and it would be up to the players to sort it out amongst themselves on the pitch.

Understandably, many were left unconvinced the Red Devils boss had the right approach, with Gary Neville declaring: “This is a Manchester United penalty – this isn’t a tombola. This is not under-fives football on the playground.”

The whole debacle seemed to expose a lack of leadership and control at the club, and Solskjaer’s post-match assessment in front of the cameras did little to dispute that.

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But according to The Sun, the Norwegian “tore into” Pogba and Rashford in the dressing room and “blasted” the pair for failing to agree on who was the penalty-taker before the game. The report adds Solskjaer then made it clear to the squad Rashford would now be the man to take on spot-kick duties for the club.

If the claim that the United manager had looked to keep things in-house and away from the prying eyes of the media is true, then Solskjaer must be applauded. The Norwegian was put in an incredibly difficult situation by the duo, but rather than blaming them publicly, as a certain Jose Mourinho may have done, he backed them. Then, when he had the chance to make his feelings clear back in the confines of the dressing room, he reportedly took decisive action.

Watch the video below to see the most insane overhead kick you will see this week…

What could he have gained by simply throwing his players under the bus? Indeed, in Pogba’s situation, it could have been the final straw in helping the Frenchman decide that his career was better off elsewhere.

At a time when United are beginning their rebuild following last season’s disappointment, Solskjaer’s willingness to protect his players in public, but deal with them in private, is a welcome sign of leadership.

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