Man United boss Solskjær reveals lengthy timeline for Paul Pogba & supports Harry Maguire's captaincy

Solskjær backs Maguire’s captaincy

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjær is set to try to arrest the slide that the Red Devils are currently on as they sit sixth in the Premier League table.

But despite some troubling performances from his players – including captain Harry Maguire – the Norwegian headmaster continues to back the England international center-back amidst criticism of his performances for club and country this season from United legend Roy Keane.

In quotes provided by the Guardian, Solskjær spoke highly of Maguire and shot down any notion that he was in danger of being stripped of his captaincy at Old Trafford;

“I’ve not considered taking away any captain’s armband away from him. He’s been an absolute stalwart for us, on and off the pitch. Harry’s not one to hide on the treatment table or try to find any excuse to sit out games.

As a true example of a Manchester United player, Harry is always there for his team and his country. The so-called experts have their opinions. He’s going to prove the critics wrong.”

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 12: Harry Maguire of England celebrates after scoring their side’s first goal during the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between England and Albania at Wembley Stadium on November 12, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

The remarks come in the wake of Keane’s comments last week stating “He’s been a disgrace the last few months for Manchester United” while labeling the England man an “embarrassment” after his goal-scoring celebration in the 5-0 drubbing of Albania during World Cup qualifying. But after the backing received by his boss, Maguire is set to remain as a key fixture under Ole while he remains at the wheel.

Pogba set for an extended stay in the Man United treatment room

In what is a massive blow to Manchester United and their hopes of climbing back up the table, Solskjær revealed that key midfielder Paul Pogba is set to miss nearly three months of action after picking up a thigh injury while on international duty with France.

Manchester United could be without injured Paul Pogba for up to 12 weeks @RichJolly https://t.co/J7VEv7WHHd

— Guardian sport (@guardian_sport) November 19, 2021

Pogba has already begun his treatment timetable while in Dubai and is slated to miss 11-matches until he is expected back fit for service, with Solskjær lamenting the loss of such an influential performer;

“It was a disappointing injury for Paul at a disappointing time for him. I can’t say how quickly it will heal: fingers crossed, six or seven weeks, but the worst-case scenario is 10, 11, 12 weeks on muscle injuries like this. Hopefully just after Christmas we can see him.”

Thankfully for the Red Devil’s, Scott McTominay is available for the weekend after the Scottish international was pictured with the traveling squad to face Watford tomorrow, arresting at least one selection concern for the under-fire Norwegian manager.