Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman has suggested that Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will be the happier coach heading into this Sunday’s derby against Manchester United.
Jose Mourinho will have to take on the Premier League leaders without Paul Pogba due to the Frenchman’s suspension.
The £89m midfielder was handed a straight red card when he caught the back of Hector Bellerin’s leg with his studs during Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates.
Pogba’s absence during his spell on the sidelines with injury was heavily felt by United, so losing the former Juventus star for a hugely important game is less than ideal.
City are yet to be beaten in all competitions this season and they currently have an eight-point lead over their neighbours in the league table.
If Guardiola’s side win at the weekend, then City will pull away with an 11-point advantage.
While speaking to Sky Sports, Osman gave his verdict on Pogba’s ban.
“He [Pogba] is the key to Manchester United’s style of play. The size of Manchester United, not many players can take the team on their shoulders and he’s come back and done that. He’s been the driving force behind that team. To miss him will be huge. Pep Guardiola will be delighted.”
