Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has downplayed the significance of Manchester United’s upcoming games against Burnley and Liverpool despite his side’s chance to take the initiative in the title race.
United currently sit level on points with Premier League leaders Liverpool following an unbeaten 10-game run over the festive period, though the Red Devils can move top of the division should they avoid defeat at Burnley in their game-in-hand on Tuesday evening.
Solskjaer’s side then travel to face Liverpool in a huge fixture between the two prospective title rivals this weekend, though the Norwegian has downplayed talk of a defining week in his side’s season, admitting there is plenty of football still to be played before the end of the campaign.
“We’re not even halfway through the season yet,” Solskjaer said.
“Every game in the Premier League is a challenge, is a test. Every game gives you a different test.
“Watford, they gave us a test. Burnley is one test, Liverpool is another, then you go to Fulham, which is a different test again.
“No-one will remember how the league table looked like on the 12th of January in 2021.”
However, Solskjaer admits he is pleased his side’s supporters are daring to dream following a positive first-half of the campaign at Old Trafford, with the Red Devils in contention for a first title challenge since last being crowned champions almost eight years ago.
“I think it’s great that our fans are excited and that they’re happy with where we are at and that we have this little sense of excitement,” the Norwegian added.
“But then we’re not even halfway through the season so of course every game against Burnley, or every game against Liverpool matters a lot anyway.
“For me, all my eyes are on Tuesday and then let’s see where we’re at after that one.”
