Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has praised center back Victor Lindelof and admitted that his strength of character and technical qualities can make him an influential figure in the coming years.
Lindelof recently agreed on a new five-year contract on Wednesday, pledging his future to Manchester United until 2024 with an option to extend his stay for another further 12 months.
The Swedish defender had been linked with a move to Catalonian giants Barcelona during the ending part of the transfer window but insisted he was “very happy” in Manchester, where he has nailed down a place as a regular starter.
Lindelof has been thought to play a vital role for Manchester United as a mainstay in the center-back position alongside new record signing Harry Maguire. The 25-year-old looks like a solid candidate to partner the Englishman in United’s backline for years to come.
And Solskjaer has been impressed with Lindelof’s qualities stating that he will be an important to the club, “Ever since I came in, I’ve been impressed by Victor, so now, to nail him down here, it’s important, He’s the modern center-back – calm, composed and good on the ball. And, being a fellow Scandinavian, I know all about his mentality. You always get that mentality from Scandinavians, even though he’s a Swede!”
Lindelof wasn’t able to make an immediate impact at Old Trafford since arriving from Benfica as Jose Mourinho signed the talented defender but Solskjaer has been putting his faith in Lindelof and Norwegian has explained that it would have been difficult initially for a player to adapt in the English Premier League.
The 46-year old further added, “The Premier League is a different animal to Europe, It took time for Victor, as he would admit himself now, but he’s settling in. Last season, I thought he was excellent when I came here. His composure on the ball and leadership skills will be important.”
