Paul Pogba AXED: Jose Mourinho explains team selection for Huddersfield clash
JOSE MOURINHO has made the bold call to ditch Paul Pogba from Manchester United’s first XI.
Mourinho opted to drop Pogba for the visit of Huddersfield (3pm) because he felt Scott McTominay deserved to start.
The 21-year-old midfielder has broken into the United side this season, appearing more and more regularly.
With Marouane Fellaini sidelined once again after suffering a recurrence of his knee injury at Tottenham, McTominay has earned his chance.
United’s record signing Pogba has subsequently been axed off the back of Wednesday’s 2-0 defeat at Wembley.
And Mourinho has explained his decision, after being seen arguing with the Frenchman during the Spurs game.
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“I think today is another wonderful opportunity”
Jose Mourinho
"In Pogba's place is McTominay,” Mourinho said, after his team was announced.
“He's been here many, many years in the Academy, waiting for an opportunity.
“I am giving it to him now and I think today is another wonderful opportunity."
Mourinho will hope his choice to give McTominay his latest chance to shine is vindicated today.
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After Manchester City slipped up at Burnley in the lunchtime kick off, drawing 1-1 at Turf Moor, United can close the gap to 13 points with a win over Huddersfield at Old Trafford.
Mourinho, though, did concede yesterday that the Red Devils are fighting for second now, not the title.
Pogba could return to the starting XI in Manchester United’s next game when they go to Newcastle next Sunday (2.15pm).