Manchester, Dec 19 (IANS): Former striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has endorsed Louis van Gaal's "strong personality", saying the Dutchman possesses the kind of mentality his ex-club requires.

The Dutchman replaced mis-fit David Moyes at Old Trafford at the beginning of the new season in August and has led the Red Devils to third place in the English Premier League table after a run of six consecutive wins.

Solskjaer, who won six titles during his 11 years at the club, said Van Gaal is exactly the right fit for the team.

"He’s been a breath of fresh air,” he was quoted as saying by the Manchester Evening News Thursday.

"The fans, the players needed a strong personality. You see he’s talking about winning the championship. I think that’s the United mentality. We shouldn’t talk about being third or fourth. We should talk about winning the league."

The former Cardiff boss also said that he believes United are still in the title race despite being eight points behind leaders Chelsea.

"I’ve been here for too many years to say they can’t. Be in the hunt in March, April and you never know. That’s when everything gets decided," he added.