By Brian Bariyo Tumuramye
Anthony Martial should be fit enough to play at least a part in Saturday’s Manchester derby, according to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The 24-year-old missed Wednesday’s win over Tottenham Hotspur after picking up an injury during last Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa, but the boss says he could feature at the Etihad Stadium, even if it’s initially as a substitute,“We hope to have Anthony, definitely, for part of the game. I am not sure he is able to start,” said Ole.
Paul Pogba, who memorably scored a brace in our last victory away at our rivals, a 3-2 comeback success in April 2018, is still recovering from the ankle injury that has ruled him out since the end of September.
The French midfielder is getting closer to a return, with Solskjaer indicating that he could play a part for the Reds over the upcoming busy festive period,“Paul probably won’t be available, no.”
“We expect him back as soon as possible, as quickly as possible. He’s out on the grass training. I said [he’ll be back] in 2019, so hopefully we’ll see him before the New Year, definitely.”
The boss didn’t provide an update on midfielder Nemanja Matic, whom he mentioned as possibly being in line for a return in midweek, but Scott McTominay did complete the full 90 minutes against Spurs after spending three and a half weeks on the sidelines.
Meanwhile, long-term absentees Eric Bailly, Tim Fosu-Mensah and Diogo Dalot are putting in the hard work at the Aon Training Complex as they fight to be fit.
Mason Greenwood received the nod to start in the win over Tottenham, in Martial’s absence, and will be hoping for another run-out in a such a high-profile fixture.
