Rush for the semi-finals: Solskjaer impressed with his attacker's sublime finishing

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer didn't hesitate to emphasize the brilliance and skilfullness of his forward Marcus Rashford, who scored the beautiful opener and paved the way for Manchester United to clinch an important 2-0 quarter-final first leg win at Granada which push them on the verge of the Europa League semi-finals.

Rashford shone once again despite concerns of his fitness. His superb goal from Victor Lindelof's fine pass was his eight of the season in Europa League, which makes him the best United's scorer ever since the legendary Boby Charlton, who scored the same amount of goals in United's 1964/1965 European campaign.

With that said, it's no wonder Solskjaer is full of praise for his 23-year-old forward.

"Fantastic goal!," the Norwegian said in the postmatch interview. "Great ball by Victor, great run and skill to bring the ball down like this we've seen it a few times before and that's a top, top quality goal."

Asked if he was protecting Rashford with Sunday's trip to Tottenham in mind by taking him off in the 65th minute, he added:

"It's the same thing as before. He's not recovered from it and hopefully it's not got any worse from this because he lasted 70 against Brighton, 65 now, so hopefully he's ready. I think he should be ready for Sunday and the goal is exceptional."

Regarding that Bruno Fernandes late penalty, that gave the visitors 2-0 lead, United's tactician was very straightforward.

"To be honest, I haven't seen it. I've just seen his eye when he came off. He got hit. Mick Phelan sat behind me in the dugout and he said he took one in the face and it's a clear penalty apparently. I've not seen it, I've got to say. His eye is red and to score with just one eye open is also a skill.

"It was an important goal, the second one there because 1-0 lead losing three players is not a good position to be in.

"Delighted with the result. We gladly take the second goal. Of course it's so vital away from home and we've created a good starting point for next week's game for ourselves," concluded United's boss.

UEL drama: Arsenal frustrated by late equalizer as United triumph away

Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay and Luke Shaw picked up bookings that rule them out of next Thursday's return fixture. If they manage to go through, United will face Roma or Ajax in the semi-finals.