Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says footballers have been an "easy target" and says criticism of them has been "unfair" during the coronavirus crisis.
English football's response to the crisis has come under intense scrutiny, particularly given the decision by some clubs to furlough non-playing staff.
Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are among the Premier League clubs to avail of the British government's coronavirus job retention scheme which guarantees 80% of a worker's wages.
When Liverpool announced their decision to place their employees on the scheme, such was the furore that they performed a u-turn within 24-hours.
Manchester United and Manchester City have stated their wish not to use the scheme.
But despite the Premier League agreeing to consult players about a 30% pay cut, no such action has been forthcoming.
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has spear-headed a fund for the NHS, but players have been unwilling to see their incomes directly cut by their clubs.
But speaking to Sky Sports, United boss Solskjaer insists talks are ongoing behind closed doors about how best for footballers to contribute.
For me football is an easy target sometimes," Solskjaer told Geoff Shreeves. "For me it's unfair to call on any individual or footballers as a group because I already know players do a great amount of work in the community, and players are doing a lot to help this situation.
"Football is an easy target. Players do a great amount in the community"
Ole Gunnar Solskjær talks player pay cuts and public criticism in an exclusive sit down with @GNev2 and @GeoffShreeves 👇
📲 Read more: https://t.co/S10IpB1ryP pic.twitter.com/IppVPAiwSb— Sky Sports (@SkySports) April 7, 2020
"Discussions are taking place between players and clubs, what kind of contribution they'll make. It's not easy for anyone, and to be called out is not fair for me.
"Mistakes are being made and have been made by loads of people and that's how we learn as well. Now it's about making better decisions, good decisions, I think we all want to help the NHS, the communities, and I think it's important every single club do what they think is right.
"We're all good people, and I'm sure we all want this to be over with as soon as possible. For me it's about following the guidelines from the government as well."
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