Solskjaer issues Pogba warning to Man United's title rivals

The under-fire Red Devils star had an impressive outing against Aston Villa, leaving his manager in a buoyant mood.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer warned Manchester United’s title rivals that Paul Pogba is ‘getting fitter and stronger’ after Friday’s encounter with Aston Villa.

The 27-year-old delivered an excellent display at Old Trafford and won the decisive spot-kick that led to Bruno Fernandes’ goal, securing United a 2-1 victory to move level on 33 points with Premier League leaders Liverpool.

It was another welcome upturn for Pogba, who had struggled with injuries and illness earlier this season. Doubts over his future, which were instigated by his own agent, did little to help the under-fire star.

⭐️ Paul Pogba’s contribution for @ManUtd tonight
69 touches
11 touches in opposition box – his joint most in a PL game
Completed 37/48 passes
Won 10/19 duels, 5/7 aerial duels
6x possession gained
2 chances created
4 shots
Fouled to win a penalty pic.twitter.com/JnQ25Mx9cp

— Sky Sports Statto (@SkySportsStatto) January 1, 2021

But Solskjaer has suggested the worst may be over after making a ‘difference’ against Villa.

“Where Paul is getting fitter and stronger, you get performances like tonight,” said the United boss as quoted on Sky Sports.

“He maybe took 25 minutes to get going, but once he got going, he made a difference for us.

“We’re happy with his contribution. It’s important we get Paul on the ball, whether it’s low in the pitch or higher in between the lines.

“I know he started off wide while defending, but we wanted him to make runs in behind and get on the ball. His physical presence is important for us because we knew they are one of the strongest sides physically in the league.

“We needed players to match them, and Paul showed his strength and skill for Anthony’s [Martial] goal. Tonight I was delighted with his performance.”