Solskjaer's faith in Lindelof leaves Smalling, Jones in shade

Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants Victor Lindelof to partner Harry Maguire all season at the heart of his defence, casting a shadow over the long-term futures of England defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling at Old Trafford.

Maguire is expected to shore up a defence that conceded 54 Premier League goals last season after becoming the world's most expensive defender following an ?80 million ($97 million) move from Leicester.

But Lindelof, after some unconvincing moments earlier in his United career, has emerged as the obvious man to partner Maguire, finding a new level of fitness and consistency that has impressed his manager.

"I hope Victor and Harry don't give me a reason to change. No injuries, suspensions or lack of concentration," said Solskjaer, after the new partnership flourished in a 4-0 victory over Chelsea on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.

"They can both play, they read the game really well. Of course, Harry with his presence in the box, it's great for any centre-back to have that presence next to them.

I'm sure Victor will enjoy that." Injury to Eric Bailly, who could be out for the rest of the calendar year with a knee problem, might have presented veterans Jones and Smalling with a pathway back into first team contention.

But Solskjaer, surprisingly, left both off the bench against Chelsea, selecting 21-year-old Axel Tuanzebe, who spent last season on-loan at Aston Villa, on the bench.

"Pre-season was a great chance for Axel to show what he's capable of next to our players," said Solskjaer.

"He probably impressed me more than I expected. That's why he's on the bench. He can slot in midfield and right-back as well, so he's able to play different positions."
- One too many centre-backs -
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