Pogba back in time for Ole's litmus test
Paul Pogba will be fit to return from injury for Manchester United's Premier League match at Tottenham this weekend, interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Thursday.
The France midfielder linked up late with his teammates for a warm weather training camp in Dubai this week after being injured in a challenge by Jonjo Shelvey during the 2-0 victory at Newcastle on January 2.
Pogba missed last Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup victory over Reading as a result of the knock, but trained well in the United Arab Emirates, according to Solskjaer.
"He looked OK towards the end, so he will be fit. He did have some problems but he came through last couple of sessions well, so he should be OK," the Norwegian said.
Solskjaer has made a perfect start as United's coach since replacing the sacked Jose Mourinho on December 19, winning each of his first five matches in charge.
The former United striker has made clear since his return to Old Trafford he would love the manager's job on a permanent basis.
However, his opponent on Sunday, Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino, is believed by many observers to be the likeliest person to get the United job.
Solskjaer praised the Argentinian and justified the reports.
"He has done a very good job. That speculation is there for a reason -- because he has done well -- but it's not my job to rate managers. My focus is on me and my team."
The interim boss, though, has rejected the idea that this match represents his first serious challenge in charge of United, following wins over Cardiff, Huddersfield, Bournemouth, Newcastle and Reading. Although the Norwegian admitted the need to be aware of what rivals are good at, he was adamant that his front-foot approach would not change, regardless of the opposition.
"You adapt to any opposition we play. You all know the best teams in the league and of course we have to be aware of their strengths."
One of United's biggest test will be containing the threat of Tottenham striker Harry Kane, the joint-leading scorer in this season's Premier League, with 14 goals.
"He's not bad is he? He is a fantastic goal scorer and one of the best in the world, but I have got a couple that I'm happy to work with. Sure, whoever plays with him and trains with him can talk more about him, but from the outside he is a fantastic finisher," the 1999 treble winner said.
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