Solskjaer's team news for Villa clash

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has provided an update on the fitness of two key players prior to Sunday’s Premier League match against Aston Villa at Old Trafford.

Scott McTominay could be involved when the West Midlands club comes to Manchester this weekend.

The Scotland international has been missing since picking up a problem during the 3-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on 10 November.

"“We hope Scotty will be back as soon as possible, but he’s also been back home and I’ve not seen him,”" said the boss in his pre-match press conference, which was held in Kazakhstan.

"“Maybe [he will be fit to face] Spurs but hopefully for Sunday.”"

Paul Pogba is unlikely to return for the Reds this weekend, however, as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury which has kept him sidelined since the end of September.

"“Paul is stepping up his recovery and let’s see how soon he’ll be match fit and available,”" Ole added.

"“Of course, he’ll be like a new signing for us. He’s not really been able to play for us and, when we get him back, it’ll be like a new world-class signing and world-class midfielder."

"“We want him back as soon as possible. Sunday? No. I can’t say now as I’ve not been home and seen him. Let’s see where he’s at when he comes back and he starts training with us.”"

Ole added that, although he had been impressed with the efforts of McTominay and Fred in stepping up to the plate in Pogba’s absence, the Frenchman’s return would provide a huge lift ahead of a congested December fixture schedule.

"“Every player is allowed to be injured when he’s injured and Paul is working hard to get back."

"“Nobody can doubt his professionalism, his willingness or desire to play football. He’s a footballer and one of the best midfielders in the world. It will be like a new signing of a player before the window opens."

"“Of course, we have missed him when he’s been away but some of the players, Scotty and Fred, have taken up that challenge and done well. Of course, it’s a boost for us when he comes back though.”"

Axel Tuanzebe completed the full 90 minutes in the 2-1 defeat to Astana after a month out with a hip problem, while Luke Shaw also made it from start to finish in his first appearance since August.

The return of the two defenders further boosts Ole’s options for a seven-day period when we will also face Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City in the Premier League.