Manchester United’s victory against Chelsea could prove costly after Marcus Rashford and Marcos Rojo sustained knocks in the win at Stamford Bridge.
Rashford scored twice in west London to send United through to the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup, where they’ll face League Two side Colchester.
Frank Lampard made six changes for the clash but United’s lack of depth meant Solskjaer named players that started three days earlier in a 3-1 win against Norwich.
The Norwegian tried to mitigate the situation by making a trio of early substitutions but Rashford took a knock to his knee and faces a race against time to be fit for Saturday’s trip to Bournemouth.
While Solskjaer is hopeful the forward will be available, Rojo’s chances are less likely. The Argentine damaged his thigh in the latter stages and couldn’t come off as United had used all of their substitutions.
The defender, who played in a back three alongside Harry Maguire and Lindelof, was hobbling in the dressing room afterwards and had to apply ice to the area.
Solskjaer confirmed to MUTV after the game that it was a taxing night for his players but he was optimistic that his ‘quick healers’ would be available come Saturday.
‘We’re playing football, it’s not basketball,’ said Solskjaer.
‘Some of them are sore but you should be absolutely down on your knees, because it’s worth it. But they’re quick healers and hopefully they’ll be ready for Saturday.’
The Norwegian has continually emphasised the importance of his side’s fitness and much of United’s pre-season was built around improving their robustness in order to carry out his tactical instructions.
Solskjaer was delighted with how his side pressed during their win and Metro.co.uk understands two players recorded personal bests for distance covered at Stamford Bridge.
The Norwegian is aware of the heavy workload he’s demanded from his players so far this term and wants to add to his squad in January to provide cover in attack and midfield.
But he’s been buoyed by their performances since the 1-1 draw against Liverpool in early October and believes that the hard work during pre-season is finally transmitting into results.
Nevertheless, Solskjaer is expected to make changes ahead of the trip to the south coast with Anthony Martial, Andreas Pereira and David De Gea likely to return.
