Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Paul Pogba could provide the quality and energy Manchester United need against Manchester City at Old Trafford.
United have the perfect chance to bounce back from Tuesday’s damaging Champions League exit in the first Manchester derby of the season.
And Solskjaer sprung a surprise in his team selection with the inclusion of Pogba, despite the Frenchman’s apparent desire to leave the club.
Silence is deafening and Pogba crucially failed to respond to his agent Mino Raiola’s comments on Monday stressing his client’s decision to leave.
But regardless of all the negativity in the build-up, few will doubt Pogba’s ability and he could prove the difference in a midfield diamond alongside Fred, Scott McTominay and the more advanced Bruno Fernandes.
Solskjaer noted that Pogba produced his highest physical output against West Ham and is raring to go on derby day.
Meanwhile, academy graduates Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford start in a double-pronged attack with Edinson Cavani injured and Anthony Martial benched.
Solskjaer emphasised the importance of United finding their best level against Pep Guardiola’s men ahead of kick-off.
Listen to Solskjaer speak pre-match below, via MUTV:
💬 "The Manchester derby is massive, no matter where you come from."
Ole reiterates the significance of today's game and explains his team selection…
🔴 #MUFC
#️⃣ #MUNMCI
🏆 #PL pic.twitter.com/mrXOjsdG29— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 12, 2020
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