Paul Pogba ruled out of AZ Alkmaar clash as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer issues update

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba [Courtesy]

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed Paul Pogba will still be missing for his side's Europa League game against AZ Alkmaar.

United have already qualified for the knockout stages of the competition but must avoid defeat against AZ to ensure they win Group L.

Although Pogba is still missing, Solskjaer said Nemanja Matic is fit again, but Diogo Dalot will also be unavailable for selection.

When asked about whether Pogba could feature against AZ at his pre-match press conference Solskjaer said: "No, it's too early. He is working hard to get fit and hopefully we can get him back on the pitch.

"Let's get him fit and back in form. He will play loads of games. He's one of the best players in the world and we're looking forward to having him back."

Speaking to MUTV about the other injuries in his squad Solskjaer added: "Diogo [Dalot] is back training fully but has only had one day. Nemanja [Matic] is back. [Marcos] Rojo is hopefully back next week. Eric [Bailly] and Timothy [Fosu-Mensah] are training with the team from next week onwards.

“We're getting better and better in that respect. In January, I reckon we will have many of them match fit.”

Although United are already guaranteed to be playing Europa League knockout football next year, Solskjaer insisted he would be taking the game against AZ seriously.

He added: "Of course I'm bothered. Every time you play you have a chance to prove to yourself and your teammates and me that you deserve to be part of this team for a long time.

"We're on the right track and I see the boys training every day and the attitude and the quality so I've not been that worried."

After the game against AZ United host Everton on Sunday hoping to make it three Premier League wins in a row following their victories against Tottenham and rivals Manchester City last week.

 

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