Sir Alex Ponders Pogba Debut

Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to hand Paul Pogba a first-team debut in the Carling Cup and will consider several other promising reserves for the trip to Leeds.

The boss plans to integrate Pogba into his squad this term after he had a taste of senior action in Paul Scholes' testimonial, coming as a substitute for the retiring legend.

"Pogba's in the first-team training set-up now," he told Inside United when asked how much he planned to use the France Under-19 midfielder. "So that's the first step.

"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."

Pogba, speaking to French magazine 10 Foot whilst away on international duty, feels he is getting closer to realising a dream of playing at the top level.

"Every day I’m aiming for the first team," he stressed. "Sir Alex gave me confidence by picking me for the pre-season game against Marseille in August. So I know I’m on the right track.

"Everyone at the club is great – they look after young players well. We have a laugh and there’s a special atmosphere."

When asked by Inside United about any other youngsters who could be blooded at Elland Road, the boss name-checked five reserve-teamers although the high-profile nature of the draw may end up calling for a more senior starting XI.

"There are a few players who have done well," Sir Alex replied, speaking before the Reds came out of the hat to travel to Yorkshire.

"Will and Michael Keane, Ezekiel Fryers, Larnell Cole, Jesse Lingard - these boys are all good, young players who are making the right progress."