Name Changed
weso26
I've a funny feeling Fletcher might start, especially if we go with three in midfield.
Quite possibly. He needs games.
I've a funny feeling Fletcher might start, especially if we go with three in midfield.
BURNLEY manager Eddie Howe is running the rule over Manchester United starlet Paul Pogba as he looks for loan window reinforcements.
Clarets boss Howe was in the crowd to see United’s young side beat Fulham and go top of the Premier Reserve League at Altrincham’s Moss Road ground on Monday night, with Pogba understood not to be the only player under his watch.
And although the 33-year-old has come in for criticism in some quarters for a lack of experience in his squad, following the departure of older figures such as captain Graham Alexander and Clarke Carlisle during the summer, and more recently Wade Elliott, 18-year-old Pogba would offer a boost to the midfield engine room.
The Frenchman has been described as a cross between Patrick Vieira and Abou Diaby because of his power and dribbling skills.
As well as an eye for goal, he possesses leadership skills having captained his country at Under 16 level.
He was tipped to make his debut in last season’s FA Cup clash with Southend, although he has yet to make a senior appearance for the Reds.
But there are fears the young midfield dynamo could be out of Burnley’s reach.
Pogba has been earmarked to be involved in next week’s Carling Cup third round clash at Leeds United, and in the rounds after that if they are successful at Elland Road.
And United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has not ruled out the chance of him making a Premier League breakthrough this season.
“Pogba’s in the first-team training set-up now, so that’s the first step,” he said.
“After that, it’ll likely depend on when we decide to make changes.
"He’ll probably be involved in the League Cup and that’ll be his chance to establish himself in the squad.”
Financing a loan deal for one of the Premier League’s hottest prospects could also prove to be a stumbling block for the Clarets, who have made severe cuts to the wage bill since the end of last season.
Pogba primed for Leeds chance
Sir Alex intends to throw Paul Pogba into the lion's den at Elland Road on Tuesday night as United meet old foes Leeds in the Carling Cup third round.
The Reds are still smarting from the shock FA Cup defeat the Yorkshiremen inflicted at Old Trafford in January 2010 and will aim to avenge that result by blending youth and experience.
French prospect Pogba picked up a slight knock in the Reserves' 2-1 win against Rochdale last Thursday but is in line for his senior debut. Although it promises to be a hostile occasion, Sir Alex has no qualms about fielding the talented midfielder.
"He's got a slight injury," the boss said, speaking at the launch of the club's new partner, Malaysian snack giants Mister Potato. "It's not too bad, though. So he wasn't available for Sunday but he should be able to play on Tuesday and I intend to play him against Leeds United."
Sir Alex also revealed there is no prospect of Pogba being loaned out this season, despite recent reports of interest from Burnley. The teenager could, however, be farmed out in 2012/2013. For now, though, he'll remain at Old Trafford to continue his development.
"It's more difficult to loan a boy of 18 who's come from France," explained the manager.
"We prefer to keep him with us until we find he's mature enough to possibly go on loan. Maybe next year that could be an option but we're definitely expecting him this season to stay with Manchester United."
Mister Potato![]()
Available for Sunday? He hardly considered him for the squad for Chelsea.
No I am Gino but my facebook status is Paul Pogba
Decent debut, didn't shy away, passed well, a few sloppy mistakes down to nerves. He has that aurora about him though, disappointed about his shot though
Far more to come from Pogba.
Definitely want to see more of him. If we get a home draw in the next round against a lower ranked team, he might start. He played his way into the game and gradually started to express himself with his passing. Tidy debut over all.
Is it only me, or does he have a uncanny resemblance to...dare I say...Balotelli?![]()
Aura!
Bloody Ipad!![]()
Was glad to see him get his chance. Tidy performance overall and a couple ofpasses.
Is it only me, or does he have a uncanny resemblance to...dare I say...Balotelli?![]()