Ole Gunnar Solskjaer sacked as Man Utd manager after disastrous run of results

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been sacked as Manchester United manager after their humiliating defeat to Watford at Vicarage Road.

The Norwegian has been dismissed after facing mounting pressure in recent weeks as a result of United's dismal run of form.

Man Utd shipped 13 goals to Aston Villa, Everton, LeicesterCity, Liverpool and Manchester City in that time - four of those fixtures played at home.

Back-to-back home defeats to arch-rivals Liverpool and City left Solskjaer clinging onto his job with Old Trafford bosses opting to stick with him during the most recent international break.

However, after yet another sorry performance under his stewardship, which saw the Hornets dominate on their way to a 4-1 win, the axe has fallen on the Norweigan.

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Given the level of financial backing Solskjaer received in the summer, many had tipped United for their first Premier League title in eight years - yet they already appear out of the title race.

News of Solskjaer's sacking comes just a few months after he was handed a three-year contract extension as a result of last season's second-place league finish.

The former United player was at the helm for just under three years, before having his reign cut short.

United have confirmed that Michael Carrick will take over in the immediate aftermath, before they search for an interim boss until the end of the season.

A statement on the club's official site reads: "Ole will always be a legend at Manchester United and it is with regret that we have reached this difficult decision.

"While the past few weeks have been disappointing, they should not obscure all the work he has done over the past three years to rebuild the foundations for long-term success.

"Ole leaves with our sincerest thanks for his tireless efforts as Manager and our very best wishes for the future. His place in the club's history will always be secure, not just for his story as a player, but as a great man and a Manager who gave us many great moments.

"He will forever be welcome back at Old Trafford as part of the Manchester United family.

"Michael Carrick will now take charge of the team for forthcoming games, while the club looks to appoint an interim manager to the end of the season."

Manchester United take on Villarreal in the Champions League on Tuesday, before a gruelling run of Premier League fixtures including a trip to league leader Chelsea next time out.