Paul Pogba.

Pogba forced to withdraw from international duty

Monday 02 September 2019 15:58

The France Football Federation has confirmed that Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has been forced to withdraw from international duty with an injury.

A statement that was posted via their official Twitter account, @EquipeDeFrance, on Monday afternoon revealed the 26-year-old has been replaced by Arsenal player Matteo Guendouzi due to an ankle problem.

Didier Deschamps's reigning World Cup-winners are preparing to face Albania and Andorra at the Stade de France on Saturday and next Tuesday, respectively. 

Pogba had played a full match for United at the weekend, in the 1-1 draw against Southampton in the Premier League, and it currently remains unclear how serious his injury might be. 

As ever, a full assessment will be made at the Aon Training Complex in due course.
Pogba will miss France's two matches against Albania and Andorra due to injury.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR UNITED?

Ole Gunnar Solskajer’s Reds are back in action on Saturday 14 September, when Leicester City visit Old Trafford for a 15:00 BST kick-off in the Premier League. 

The Foxes have made a good start to the campaign by registering eight points from a possible 12 and this fixture is expected to be a fascinating watch. 

Due to today’s injury announcement and until a further update is provided by the manager, it is unclear whether Pogba is available for the game. 

Luke Shaw and Anthony Martial are also currently injured, with problems sustained in the Crystal Palace match, but Diogo Dalot is expected to return after the break. 

Eric Bailly, of course, is out until the New Year. 


HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERNATIONAL BREAK

Following Pogba’s withdrawal from the France squad, there are now 14 United players who are set to represent their countries over the next 10 days. 

That number includes flourishing right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who is set to make his first senior England appearance after a positive start to the season with the Reds. 

Daniel James will also hope to maintain his good form with Wales, after scoring his third goal in four games for United at the weekend. Make sure you check out our guide to the international break

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