Norwegian press report:
Sir Matt Busby, Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Alex Ferguson and now Sir Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Solskjaer has been named a 1st class Knight of the St. Olav's order, the Norwegian equivalent of being 'Knighted' . The 34 year-old is among the youngest who have ever received the royal title, which is usually given to significantly older contributors to society.
The reception was carried out in secrecy and hasn't been officially confirmed by the Castle, but Dagladet has had the title confirmed from several independent sources. Even though it's only weeks since the 34 year-old from Kristiansund hung his boots up as a player, it is not for his efforts for Manchester United and the national side that's behind the title.
It's his exertions for the community and his status as a role model, among other things his endeavours as a UNICEF-ambassador, which have impressed King Harald. Allegedly there's a bigger ceremony planned in his hometown, Kristiansund, in conjunction with the title, before he's headed towards the Castle for an audience with the king. .
Solskjær is the oldest non-regal recipient of the ordercross, which has been given earlier this year to people like the writer Herbjørg Wassmo (64), Dagblad-drawer Finn Graff (68), and supreme court barrister Jan Einar Greve (74).