Where will Reds make room for Pogba’s return?
UNITED’S upturn in form has come without Paul Pogba in the team, that much is unarguable.
The midfielder has been out with an ankle problem since September 30. It looked like a risk when he was rushed back for games against Rochdale and Arsenal and it proved as much, before it was wisely decided that he needed a period on the sidelines.
Now, after the Frenchman revealed his ankle brace had been removed, United fans are speculating about his speedy return to the side. Pogba must return to the side when fit and it’s folly to suggest
United are better without him. Solskjaer’s men need his midfield control and ability to dominate games, but the question is how and where they can accommodate him? Here are three ways...
INJURED McTOMINAY MAKES WAY
THE first, very simple way would come via a piece of bad news – if Scott McTominay’s own ankle problem, suffered in the 3-1 victory over Brighton, is significant.
Solskjaer said the injury can keep players for two weeks, though conversely it can sometimes take eight weeks. If it’s the latter, then there’s no doubt United will view the Scot’s absence as a big blow. McTominay has enjoyed a transformative campaign so far, stepping into the chasm left by Ander Herrera and becoming a genuine on-field leader.
Pogba is a different kind of player, perhaps lacking in McTominay’s scuttling energy, but possessing a greater range of passes and the vision to unlock defences. He could easily slot next to Fred against Sheffield United in the Reds’ first game back after the break.
PEREIRA MAKES WAY SOLSKJAER has been loath to drop Andreas Pereira this season, handing the Brazilian numerous chances in a variety of positions to plug gaps in the United midfield.
But the truth is, with everyone fit, does Pereira deserve a spot in United’s first choice midfield?
Despite his fortuitous goal against Brighton, the answer – based on form – is no. Fred and McTominay are building a promising partnership and Pogba looks a better bet in the more advanced midfield role.
Solskjaer has preferred Pogba in a deeper role so far this season, but the France international’s best football under Solskjaer – early in 2019 – came in a 4-3-3 in which he’s given license to roam and create. Many United fans would be excited by the prospect of seeing that system again.
POGBA IN DEEPER MIDFIELD THERE’S a chance Pogba and McTominay could operate together in deeper midfield.
That would mean Solskjaer makes the very harsh decision to drop Fred.
The Brazilian certainly deserves to keep his spot and dropping him could upset the balance in midfield with Fred starting to look confident.
But United haven’t started Fred, Pogba and McTominay together this season. One of Pereira, Juan Mata or Jesse Lingard has always been included as a No.10, so don’t be surprised if it happens again.