Given his strike-rate at international level the Manchester United man could hardly be blamed if he was a little put out by his increasing familiarity with playing wide in midfield. But if this evening's game against Morocco goes to plan for Egil Olsen's side then the 25-year-old could emerge as the central figure for Norway over the next couple of weeks.

Olsen still has many veterans of US '94 at his disposal, but his decision to employ Solskjaer out on the left of a five-man midfield is just one of many signs that the Norwegian boss is shifting his game-plan away from the kick and rush tactics that brought his team to prominence.

Solskjaer has, as he said yesterday, operated in this way during his last two international outings, but in neither case was he an outstanding success, even if his manager was happy enough with his performances.

"There is more work required, especially defensively, but I am getting used to it now because, of course, I also played sometimes in this way for Manchester United, so it is not a problem," he said last night. His speed getting forward and eye for goal is certainly proven. As for the rest? We'll just have to wait and see.