Absence makes Manchester United hearts grow fonder for Paul Pogba
Midfielder shows just what Jose Mourinho’s side have been missing with all-action return from injury
He does not yet share teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s cult status, but Paul Pogba’s display on his comeback from injury showed his importance to Manchester United is second to none.
Having toiled in Pogba’s absence, recently taking four points from a possible 12 in the Premier League, United rediscovered their swagger against Newcastle on Saturday when the Frenchman made his return.
With a goal and an assist in a 4-1 comeback win, Pogba was the man of the match and his overall display helped United find a level they have struggled to reach during his two-month absence.
“He affects our football,” said United manager Jose Mourinho. “We all know, myself and the fellow players, that certain players influence the levels of the team. With him we have much more creation.”
Though he has often dazzled with his long-legged technical artistry, the recognition of Pogba’s influence on United’s play has been slow in coming.
