Phil Neville: 'Manchester United predictable without Paul Pogba'

Phil Neville has talked up the importance of Paul Pogba and claims that Manchester United look far too predictable without the Frenchman in their ranks.

Pogba is available for selection against Bristol City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday evening after serving a three-match domestic ban for the red card received at Arsenal.

During the 24-year-old's latest absence from the side, the Red Devils were deservedly beaten by Manchester City and had to grind out narrow wins against lowly Bournemouth and West Bromwich Albion.

Neville expects his former club to push on with Pogba back, however, telling Sky Sports News: "When I see Manchester United without Paul Pogba I see a team which goes from one who can swat away teams by three or four goals to one that's workmanlike.

"Pogba is a leader in what he does. He makes United more enjoyable to watch and he frees up the attacking players with his understanding with Romelu Lukaku, Jesse Lingard, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford.

"As a forward he gives you that spark and arrogance. When he doesn't play it becomes more predictable and his unpredictability when United play is really important."

Pogba has played a direct part in eight goals in his eight Premier League outings this season.