Manchester United could appoint Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the club’s permanent manager as early as this week, according to reports in the English media.

Chief Executive Ed Woodward was expected to announce a decision at the end of the season, but they are likely to bring forward the appointment to end speculation.

Solskjaer has won 14 out of 19 games in charge since taking over from Jose Mourinho in December, but despite recent back to back defeats, the United board have reportedly decided that the Norwegian is their man.

Players such as Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic in recent days have come out and backed Solskjaer to be appointed for the long term, indicating the decision will be backed by everyone in the United dressing room.

Along with Solskjaer, his backroom staff of Mike Phelan, Kieran McKenna and Michael Carrick have all played their part in reinvigorating the club’s season. The Red Devils are now just two points off the top four heading into the last eight games.