Solskjaer plays down injury fears

Solskjaer, who has undergone major reconstructive knee surgery over the last two years, underwent a fairly minor procedure after reporting discomfort while training with Norway on Sunday, and is expected to be able to train fully in a matter of weeks.

"I don't want you to write my football career history book yet," Solskjaer said. "I was relieved to discover that this wasn't new, but something from the injury in March. Physically and mentally I'm ready to join the team at the start of the season in four weeks."

He added: "The whole operation was discussed with United. They were fine with me having the surgery in Norway and, by the way, the surgeon is invited to next year's Champions League final!"

Norway team doctor Thor Einar Anderson added: "(The surgery) went fine. We found what we expected. The knee was swollen and the joint was irritated, but we treated it. Hopefully it will be better when Ole resumes his training.

"We hope this is not something that will return again and again."

Alan Smith, another man who has battled back from a long-term injury, wants a new contract with Manchester United and is determined to break into the Barclays Premiership champions' first team.

The former Leeds striker has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford but he is keen to agree a new deal, even though his current contract has two years left to run.

"I have a contract re-negotiation coming up," Smith said. "I was due contract talks last year and we decided, the club and myself, I wouldn't do that when I was injured because it wasn't fair on them.

"But now I am fit and ready to commit my future. I want to stay at United. My agent has spoken with the club and talks should happen in the next few weeks."