Real reason why Solskjaer attended Wolves vs Ipswich before O'Neil's sacking

The former Manchester United manager was in the stands for the club's 2-1 defeat to Ipswich Town that led to Gary O'Neil's sacking.

The Norwegian has been out of work for almost three years after being sacked by the Red Devils in November 2021.

The 1999 Champions League winner has been linked to several jobs since and held talks with the Swedish national team earlier this year.

Solskjaer publicly confirmed he has rejected interest from Saudi Arabia and has also had interest from his old Norwegian side Molde.

He has now been made the early favourite via talkSPORT Bet to become the new manager at Molineux.

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Solskjaer raised eyebrows when he was spotted watching the defeat to Ipswich - which proved to be O'Neil's final game in charge.

The former Cardiff City manager was photographed in the stands as Jack Taylor's last-gasp winner left Wolves second from bottom in the Premier League table, four points from safety, which ultimately sealed O'Neil's fate.

However, talkSPORT understands Solskjaer was in the west Midlands as a guest of Ipswich not for talks over any managerial role.

The 51-year-old maintains a close relationship with Tractor Boys boss Kieran McKenna, who was his assistant during his time at Old Trafford.

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The pair shared an embrace before kick-off, with Solskjaer later having a catch-up with Ipswich No.2 Martyn Pert - who was also part of his Man United coaching staff.

Solskjaer's 16-year-old son, Elijah, supports the Ed Sheeran-backed side, while the man himself has followed from the stands before.

Solskjaer and Michael Carrick previously were spotted together for Ipswich's 1-0 win at Doncaster in League One two years ago shortly after McKenna had taken charge.

"They're obviously two fantastic football men, two Champions League winners, but two good friends and two Ipswich Town fans now," said McKenna at the time.

"They've been following all the games on iFollow and I think they're hoping to come down to Portman Road at some point too.

"They came to the hotel this afternoon and met some of the players and staff. It was nice of them to make the journey and I really appreciate it.

"They're two colleagues, but two friends as well. We're in contact speaking about football and other things as well. They're very supportive of both me and Martyn (Pert) as well. It's two new fans for Ipswich Town, which is nice."

The Ipswich connection with Solskjaer doesn't end there, with the club once playing a match in his home town of Kristiansund during their 1970s heyday.

Those glory years may soon be returning under McKenna, who saw his side move clear of fellow relegation strugglers Wolves.

Their second Premier League victory of the season proved the final straw for McKenna's opposite number in the dugout O'Neil.

It is understood Wolves had sounded out Graham Potter and David Moyes to replace O'Neil, but both turned down the club's advances.

talkSPORT understands Wolves have also approached Carlos Corberan, who is in charge of West Bromwich Albion.

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