We’ve had some bad news on the injury front ourselves in recent weeks, so it’s a boost for us and a timely blow for Man United to hear The Telegraph report that Paul Pogba is unlikely to feature in Saturday’s game – despite suggestions over the past week that he would make his long awaited return this weekend.
The Frenchman has been sorely missed by Man United, with his absence coinciding in a dip in form that has seen them fall behind early pace setters Manchester City at the top.
First-team centre-back Phil Jones was also forced off early on in England’s 0-0 draw with Germany and is rated doubtful, whilst Carrick and Rojo are nearing a return – but are also deemed unlikely to be involved on Saturday:
Phil Jones will be assessed ahead of the Newcastle game this weekend while Saturday could come too soon for midfielder Paul Pogba. Carrick and Rojo are closing in on a return to action but the pair may need to build fitness / sharpness before being considered. #MUFC
— Ben Dinnery (@BenDinnery) November 14, 2017
Pogba’s absence will be the biggest boost for Benitez and our chances on Saturday.
Man United’s form with the £89m man in the team compared to it without him is quite telling:
Paul Pogba is set to make his return to action after the international break
Safe to say Manchester United fans can't wait to see the 24-year-old back in action given their contrasting performances with and without him…https://t.co/gFISfJs13S pic.twitter.com/JAzaGkxO3P
— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) November 8, 2017
Regardless of Pogba playing or not, I fully expect our toughest test of the season on Saturday, however there can be no denying that Mourinho’s side don’t look quite the same attacking force without their star midfielder in the side.
