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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer defends Paul Pogba as Manchester United star set for Jose Mourinho reunion
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has defended Paul Pogba after the midfielder's return to the UK, stating the player remains committed to the Red Devils.
Pogba had to miss the club matches since August after picking up an ankle injury. He has spent several weeks with his right foot in a cast and spent his recovery time in Dubai and Miami.
Recently the 26-year-old has been criticized for playing basketball in the US, though not being fit for United games.
Yet, he was linked with the move to Real Madrid during the January transfer window.
However, Pogba returned to Heathrow on Thursday and was due at Carrington on Friday.
Solskjaer insists Pogba hasn't done anything wrong. The French midfielder will miss the club's Premier League clash against Aston Villa but is likely to be on an action for Tottenham fixture on Wednesday.
The United boss said: "Every player is allowed to be injured when he's injured. Paul is working hard to be back and no-one can doubt his professionalism or his willingness or desire to play football. He's a footballer and he's also one of the best midfielders in the world, so it will be like signing a new player before the transfer window opens. Of course we've missed him while he's been away. Some of the players, like Scott McTominay and Fred, have taken up that (midfield) challenge and have done well but, of course, it's a boost for us when he comes back. He's stepping up his recovery and let's see how soon he'll be match-fit and available. Sunday? No. Spurs? I can't say because I've not been at home and seen him. Let's see where he's at when he comes back and starts training. He's not really been able to play for us so when we get him back it'll be like a new world-class signing. We want him back as soon as possible."
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England, Premier League