Being labeled a football ‘super sub’ can feel like a mixed compliment. It recognizes those who can change games from the bench but often highlights why they don’t start.
Throughout football history, many players have been called super subs, but few exemplify this role like Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Manchester United supporters will always remember Solskjaer for his ability to change matches after coming on, especially his famous goal that secured the Champions League title at Camp Nou.
That memorable moment in 1999 solidified Solskjaer as a beloved figure in Manchester United’s history. His talent as a substitute had already been evident long before that night.
Earlier that same season, he made a notable substitute appearance in the Premier League.
The arrival of Dwight Yorke from Aston Villa limited Solskjaer’s starting opportunities, as Yorke quickly built a strong partnership with Andy Cole.
This duo became Sir Alex Ferguson’s preferred striking pair, while Solskjaer and veteran Teddy Sheringham offered solid support.
In early February 1999, United faced Nottingham Forest, who were struggling at the bottom of the league.
On the other hand, United was contending for the title, wanting to take it back from Arsenal, who had won a domestic double the year before.
The match at City Ground presented little challenge for United, despite Forest equalizing shortly after Yorke scored first.
Andy Cole quickly restored United’s lead, helping himself and Yorke to a pair of goals either side of halftime.
Solskjaer waited patiently for his moment for 72 minutes, closely observing the game for any weaknesses.
When Yorke was substituted, Solskjaer got his chance. The coaching staff instructed him to maintain possession and see out the match.
However, Solskjaer had other plans.
Eager to prove himself, he quickly put his mark on the game by scoring just eight minutes after coming on, tapping in a cross from Gary Neville.
Solskjaer’s impact was expected, but the end of the match made his appearance unforgettable.
He added his second goal, and United’s sixth, just before the end, running onto a long pass from David Beckham.
Forest struggled to keep up, and Solskjaer completed his hat-trick as the game neared its conclusion, scoring with a well-placed shot after a pass from Paul Scholes.
After scoring, he noted the back of the net for a seventh United goal.
Despite the scoreline, there was still time for one more. In added time, Solskjaer netted his fourth goal after a missed attempt from Scholes, demonstrating his quick finishing skills.
“I thought the finishing was magnificent. Solskjaer was amazing.
“If I ever feel guilty about the teams I pick, it invariably centres around him. He really deserves better. But he is better than anyone else at the club as a substitute. He finds the flow easily.”
– Sir Alex Ferguson
As the final whistle blew, fans were filled with disbelief and excitement. They celebrated the incredible performance of their Scandinavian star.
Only six players have scored a hat-trick in the Premier League coming off the bench, and Solskjaer is the only one to net four.
Super sub Solskjaer scores four off the bench to make #PL history ⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️#PLMoments @ManUtd pic.twitter.com/Mj5bBTCZQv
— Premier League (@premierleague) June 7, 2017
Solskjaer’s impressive performance contributed greatly to the longevity of the super sub nickname. Even decades later, he remains the first player many think of when considering those who shine off the bench.
His fame peaked during that unforgettable moment in the Champions League final, where he turned Teddy Sheringham’s header into a winning goal.
Bayern Munich had controlled the match and seemed ready to crush United’s treble hopes. But Ferguson called on Solskjaer once again, leading to an incredible turn of events.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad became known for their ability to clinch late victories, aided by a talented support team. Among them, Solskjaer stood out as the Premier League’s most famous super sub.
Read Also – The five greatest Super Subs in Premier League history
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