Solskjaer talks up Edinson Cavani’s fitness ahead of Istanbul clash

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says new signing Edinson Cavani is getting closer to peak fitness.

Cavani has made three appearances from United, all of them from the bench.

There is a chance he could make his first start in midweek against Istanbul Basaksehir.

Solskjaer says Cavani is building up his fitness and is on the right track.

The United boss told the club website: “Edinson’s generally a fit man anyway and he’s getting his sharpness in training and he’s got some substitute appearances now.

“We haven’t managed to get him long enough yet to make a big impact, but he’s looking sharper and sharper in training so it won’t be long.”

The Uruguayan is competing with Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood for a starting spot.

Alex Telles to miss out

Alex Telles is still undergoing tests after contracting Covid last month.

Solskjaer said: “Alex needs to be negative on his next test, so let’s hope we can get him back as soon as possible.”

Along with Jesse Lingard, who has returned to training, Telles is unlikely to fly out to Turkey with the squad. Eric Bailly and Phil Jones are also out injured.

Solskjaer added that he is pleased to get Anthony Martial this weekend after a suspension.

He said: “I thought towards the end of the Leipzig game, you could see his sharpness getting there and he was really positive and bright, which is good.”

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