And there was further frustration for Hammers boss Harry Redknapp when his attempt to take Glasgow Rangers forward Marco Negri on a week's trial with the London side hit a snag.

Norwegian striker Solskjaer has been surplus to requirements at Old Trafford for much of the season due to the burgeoning partnership between Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke.

Norway manager Nils Johan Semb has already warned Solskjaer his international place will be at risk unless he is playing first-team football.

But, after turning down a move to Tottenham in August, he has now shrugged off an approach from Redknapp, who is desperate to replace John Hartson following the Welsh frontman's move to Wimbledon.

"If I had been at any other club but United then I think I would have gone to the manager and asked to leave," he admitted. "But I want to stay here and win things."

'I'm ready and willing'

Solskjaer insiste he will stay at United and try to force his way back into the team:

"The manager can see that it is a frustrating time for me and he also knows I am determined to get my place back and work for the team," he said.

"If anyone gets injured, and I hope they don't, then I am ready to come on.

"We want to win things this year and this is the way to do it.

"If you want to stay at Manchester United and win trophies and be successful then you have to work through the reserve games and that is what I am doing."

His decision will delight United manager Alex Ferguson, who has been impressed by Solskjaer's efforts this season, which have seen him score 10 goals despite being given limited opportunities.

"Ole knows I will be fair with him," said Ferguson.

"He'll get his chance and as far as I'm concerned, Old Trafford remains the place for him.

"He is still developing and will continue to do that here."

Negri looks for move south

Negri, who has been out of favour at Ibrox all season, was hoping to begin his trial with West Ham on Tuesday - with a view to signing a loan deal for the rest of the campaign.

Negri needs to rebuild his career after his Rangers row

"We have spoken to Rangers about a deal and they have allowed Marco to come and train with us," said Redknapp.

"If we think his fitness is good, then there is a possibility we could take him on loan with a view to making a long-term arrangement."

But Football Association rules say a player registered to a league in another country cannot play trial games.

The Hammers must commit themselves to a three-month loan if they want him to play for the reserves in the Avon Combination.