Jose Mourinho explains Paul Pogbas absence in Manchester Uniteds clash with Derby
Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Paul Pogba is one of five Manchester United players hes decided to rest for the sides clash with Derby.
Reports ahead of the Carabao Cup third-round tie suggested that Mourinho and Pogba had been at war after the latter was partly at fault for Wolves equaliser in Saturdays 1-1 draw in the Premier League.
Mourinho questioned Pogbas attitude and told his players that Pogba, who had been filling in as captain for Antonio Valencia, will never wear the armband again for the club.
The Frenchman has not been selected in Uniteds 18-man squad to take on Derby and Luke Shaw, Victor Lindelof, Antonio Valencia and David De Gea are also absent at Old Trafford.
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Asked why Pogba and Shaw are not playing, Mourinho told Sky Sports: [Theyre] rested. I gave a rest to Luke, to Paul, to Victor, to Valencia, to David.
I gave a rest to these five players. I knew I couldnt give much more [a rest] because Derby are a very good team.
Mourinho believes hes shown Frank Lampard respect by fielding a strong team at Old Trafford.
Its not strange, its nice. I never hide when I say he was one of best Ive worked with, Mourinho said when asked about facing Lampard who he managed at Chelsea.
Hes one of the best professionals, I wish him best for his career. Not at all strange.
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Still have the time to have laugh on the touchline because obviously our relationship is good.
Frank is here to win the match and I show them respect by playing a team which I think is a strong team.
MORE: Manchester United players respond as Jose Mourinho tells Paul Pogba hell never be captain again
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