Crerand's tribute to a legend

United legend Paddy Crerand says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer deserves to be ranked alongside the likes of Best, Law and Charlton as one of the club's true greats.

The 34-year-old striker announced his retirement from the game on Tuesday following a lengthy injury battle which has restricted his involvement in the first team over the last few years.

Like many fans, Crerand is sad to see Solskjaer's illustrious Old Trafford career come to a premature end, but the 1968 European Cup winner insists there is no chance of the man dubbed 'the baby-faced assassin' being forgotten.

"Ole is a man who is respected and loved by everyone at Old Trafford and, as far as I’m concerned, he’s up there with the likes of Law, Best and Charlton as one of the legendary figures in United’s history," Paddy told United Review.

"Of course, that goal in Barcelona in ‘99 is the one that everyone will always remember him for, but we mustn’t forget all the important goals he scored throughout his Reds’ career."

Solskjaer will remain at Old Trafford in a coaching capacity and as a club ambassador, and Crerand fully expects the Norwegian to become a successful coach.

"He's got unvaluable experience of playing at the top level and winning trophies and that will only benefit him as a coach," says Paddy. "Ole has done things for Manchester United that people only dream about. Hopefully he'll now be able to help others realise their dreams."