CARDIFF: Former Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been appointed new manager of Cardiff City to put an end to the confusion which followed the fall-out between predecessor Malky Mackay and owner Vioncent Tan.

The 40-year-old, who watched his new club beaten 2-0 at Arsenal on Wednesday, has agreed a 12-month rolling contract with the Malaysian businessman.

Solskjaer met his new squad at the club’s training ground today after leaving Molde whom he led to two Norwegian league titles and a cup.

He said: “It is a fantastic challenge. Cardiff are ready to take the next step up. I hope I can help them. I’ve always dreamt of being a manager in the Premier League and I’m delighted to get the opportunity.

“I am really looking forward to convincing the Cardiff fans that I am the right man to take them forward. I will try to convince the fans with my hard work, loyalty and my brand of football. I’m a very positive manager.”

Cardiff have slipped to 17th in the Premier League, one point above the relegation zone.

Cup kickoff

Solskjaer’s first game in charge will be against Newcastle in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday.

He dismissed speculation that he would find it difficult working for an owner who reportedly meddled in team affairs during Mackay’s reign.

Solskjaer added: “He wants the club to be successful. I had a good meeting with him. Communication and dialogue will be key. Everything isn’t exactly what it seems from the outside.”

Looking ahead to the second half of the season, he said: “We’ve got some of the toughest trips in world football coming up this month. They’re games we’ll relish and look forward to.”

Former Manchester United and Sheffield United midfielder Mark Dempsey will follow Solkskjaer from Molde where he was also assistant.

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