Man United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 'hopeful' Paul Pogba will return before the end of the year as he brands midfielder 'one of the best in the world'
* Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says he's hopeful Paul Pogba will return before New Year
* The midfielder has been absent since suffering an ankle injury in September
* Solskjaer confirmed Pogba won't feature against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday
* He said: 'It's too early. He's working hard to get fit. Hopefully he's back this year'
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is hopeful Paul Pogba will make his return from injury before the end of the year.
Pogba has been absent since September and has been limited to just six appearances this season after suffering an ankle injury in a draw with Arsenal.
Solskjaer revealed this week the midfielder is 'back on the grass and training' but has ruled him out of playing any part in their final Europa League group game against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says he is hopeful Paul Pogba will return from injury before the new year. The Frenchman has not played since suffering an ankle injury against Arsenal in September
Asked if he would feature, Solskjaer said: 'No, it's too early for him. We hope he will be back this year. He's working hard to get fit and hopefully we can get him back on the pitch.'
Fred has been given a leading role in Pogba's absence and has impressed with his performances in recent weeks.
And Solskjaer refused to say if Pogba would slot straight back into the team when he returns to fitness.
He added: 'Let's get him fit and back in form. He will play loads of games.
'He's one of the best players in the world and we're looking forward to having him back.'
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