Paul Pogba has now missed over 70 days of football for Manchester United this season with ankle problems, and his manager revealed the Frenchman was not fit enough to return for the final Europa League group game either.
But in a moment of praise, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer did label the wantaway midfielder as “one of the best players in the world” and that he was looking forward to having him back. But the question is, after consecutive victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City when he does return who will Pogba evict from the starting eleven?
Well, it is unlikely to be Fred, with his manager lauding the Brazilian during the same press conference who said: “he’s already grabbed it [the opportunity] with both hands when Paul (Pogba) got injured.” He commanded the midfield in both the Red Devils previous wins, particularly versus Spurs.
Neither is it likely to be Scott McTominay, as the 20-year-old signed a new contract this week that reportedly doubled his wages, testament to his Norwegian manager’s faith in the academy graduate’s abilities. The Scottish international has started all but two of Manchester United’s Premier League fixtures this campaign, as both him and Fred are likely to form the midfield trio with Pogba upon his return.
Therefore, it is Jesse Lingard who is set to be removed from the starting line-up, along with Andreas Pereira. Lingard had only just been reintroduced following a disappointing season where he has not scored or assisted in the Premier League. His performances appeared to have turned a corner following his goal against Astana, but he may have to go some way further in the Premier League to keep Pogba out of the side.
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has previously described Pereira as not bring good enough for a mid-table midfield, despite having made 15 appearances for Manchester United in the Premier League this season.
It is not yet known precisely when Pogba will return, but if Lingard and Pereira want to keep featuring as often as they have so far this season, they will have to outperform Fred and McTominay, who based on the evidence of verbal praise and a new contract, seem to be the first names on the team sheet in midfield for Manchester United.
