Paul Pogba nearing Man Utd return as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer pencils in Carabao Cup comeback

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed Paul Pogba could return from injury in the midweek Carabao Cup clash against Rochdale.

The French midfielder missed the 1-0 win over Leicester City after sustaining an ankle injury during the Red Devils' draw with Southampton.

The 26-year-old was forced to withdraw from the France squad due to the injury but posted an update on his condition in training earlier this week.

While Sunday's match against West Ham arrived too soon for his return, Solskjaer confirmed Pogba is in contention to play on Wednesday at Old Trafford.

"Hopefully (Pogba) will be available for the Carabao Cup game in midweek," the Norwegian said. "He's just started training."

Pogba is yet to score this season after a summer of uncertainty over his future, although he registered two assists against Chelsea on the opening day.

His absence has given Nemanja Matic a run in the side after sitting on the bench for the first three games of the season.

And Solskjaer believes the Serbian's presence gives United a sense of balance in the midfield.

"(Matic) does give that protection," he said.

"He's a different type of player (to Pogba). For me having him there in front of the defence gives us a foundation to play from."