Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has praised Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa after the performances of midfielder Ander Herrera, reports BBC Sport (9:45am).

The Spaniard has been an unsung hero for Solskjaer over the last couple of months, with United being given a new lease of life to go out and play under the Norwegian boss.

And speaking ahead of the Red Devils' clash with famous rivals Liverpool this weekend, Solskjaer praised Bielsa for his work with Herrera during the duo's time at Athletic Bilbao.

He said: "He (Herrera) covers every bit of grass on the pitch and has so much passion, energy and enthusiasm - I remember when he played against us (United) for Bilbao, he has gone through a good school in Bielsa."

Herrera was a key player for Bielsa during his tenure at Bilbao - the midfielder was a regular for the experienced coach as they reached the Europa League final back in 2012, where they were defeated by Atletico Madrid.

The Spanish midfielder has gone on to make over 160 appearances for United since his move to Old Trafford in 2014, and definitely possesses traits that is evident to see in Bielsa's Leeds side this term.

Leeds will be hoping to return to the automatic promotion places this weekend, as they prepare to face struggling Bolton Wanderers at home.

The Verdict

It's nice to see Solskjaer praise Bielsa, he is an outstanding coach who a lot of high-profile managers seem to rate, and it's no wonder why.

Herrera has been excellent for United over the years, and he is the battling, energetic midfielder that they have been craving at Old Trafford in recent years.

You can tell that Herrera would fit seamlessly into Bielsa's side, as he looks to be the perfect option for a high-pressing side which Leeds United are this season.