Roma vs Atletico Madrid on

games. But he has yet to open his tally in Europe this term.

Messi has hit three in the Champions League this season to join Ronaldo in the exclusive club of players who have scored 100 goals in European competition. Dybala has said that he would like one day play alongside Messi’s former Barcelona team- mate Neymar Jr. WHAT’S GONE WRONG

AT ATLETICO? Twice Champions League finalists in the past four seasons, Atletico Madrid are staring an embarrassing and financially damaging exit in the face unless they beat an in- form Roma.

Even victory over the Group C leaders and away to Chelsea in two weeks may not be enough to save Atletico unless Azerbaijani Champions League debutants Qarabag can also do them a favour by taking points off one of Chelsea or Roma in their final two games.

Simeone remains steadfast in his words of support for star forward Antoine Griezmann more than in his actions after substituting the French international in each of Atletico’s last two games. He does not yet share teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s cult status, but Paul Pogba’s display on his comeback from injury showed his importance to Manchester United is second to none.

Having toiled in Pogba’s absence, recently taking four points from a possible 12 in the Premier League, United rediscovered their swagger against Newcastle United when the Frenchman made his return. With a goal and an assist in a 4- 1 comeback win, Pogba was the man of the match and his overall display helped United find a level they have struggled to reach during his twomonth absence.

“He affects our football,” summarised United manager Jose Mourinho.

“We all know, myself and the fellow players, that certain players influence the levels of the team. With him we have much more creation.”

While United have lost ground in the league, they have not missed a beat in the Champions League and visit Basel needing just a point to reach the knockout phase.