REVEALED! The man with eyes on the Old Trafford hot seat on what has helped him reach the top

Former Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed that playing cult computer game Football Manager has helped him in the early stages of his career in the dugout.

The Norwegian matchwinning hero from United's 1999 Champions League triumph is currently manager of Molde in his homeland and is considered among the frontrunners to take the hotseat at Old Trafford when Sir Alex Ferguson retires.

Living the dream: Solskjaer is in charge of Norwegian side Molde

Solskjaer revealed that he has played football management games since he was a kid and he immersed himself in Football Manager while at Old Trafford.

'When I played for Man United I relaxed with playing Football Manager,' the 38-year-old told Norwegian website PressFire.

'It's a fantastic game, I have learned a lot about football.

'I have learned a lot about players, especially young talent.

'It resembles real life when it comes to who will be good players.

Making waves: Solskjaer is among the favourites to take over from Ferguson

'They have done incredible research.'

Solskjaer has won back-to-back titles with Molde and he believes playing Football Manager has helped him in his managerial career.

'I remember thinking the same then, that I do as a manager,' he added.

'You want to give young guys the chance, see them develop.'