Solskjaer insists Pobga is ‘desperate’ to play for Man Utd

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insists Paul Pogba is “desperate” to play again – after his cast was removed following ankle surgery.

The 26-year-old has made just eight appearances in all competitions this season having been sidelined for three months earlier in the campaign.

“Paul’s had a terrible season with injuries, he’s desperate to play football,” Solskjaer said ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final against Manchester City, where they will look to overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit.

“It’s hard to put timescales on long-term injuries … he loves playing and he loves just being out there training as well, and it’s been playing on his mind.

“I see a boy that is fed up of being injured … Paul has always been a top professional. I don’t have any doubts when he comes back he’s going to enjoy himself.

“If there’s one thing that I know about Paul, he loves playing football and he loves just being out there training as well, and it’s been playing on his mind.

“Any player who is injured cannot wait to get back on the pitch, you feel so free. He’s been playing with pain, so I’m sure when he’s pain-free and he’s injury-free, he’ll enjoy his football.”