Pogba A Big Loss But Manchester United Can Cope

Gary Neville says Manchester United will miss Paul Pogba's influence but believes they have sufficient strength in depth in central midfield.

Pogba missed United's win over Everton last Sunday after damaging a hamstring against Basel in the Champions League, with Jose Mourinho rubbishing reports that the France international faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

After struggling for consistency last season, Neville has been impressed with Pogba's performances this campaign, and he is backing United's other midfielders to step up in his absence.

"He's a big miss," said Neville. "You talk about characters and personality on the pitch, Pogba always wants the ball and always believes in himself. Even if it's not going well for him he'll try the next pass.

"He has taken some stick over the last 12 months in terms of his price tag and the expectation of what people believe he should be delivering.

"He'll probably admit himself that last season he fell below his standards but he started off this season brilliantly.

"He is a loss but Marouane Fellaini has come in, and United have got Ander Herrera, Michael Carrick.

"You're going to lose players during the season, you've got to overcome it. United will have to cope with that."

Neville was speaking at the official launch of University Academy 92, a joint venture to offer students from state school backgrounds a higher education.

Credit: Skysports.com