Paul Pogba is closing in on his full return to the starting line up for Manchester United in time to face Arsenal on New Year's Day according to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The Frenchman made his first appearance since September in the club's 2-0 loss to Watford before Christmas.
He was brought on to play a role off the bench and came on as a substitute again in a convincing 4-1 win over Newcastle United on Boxing Day.
Arsenal host United on January 1 at the Emirates Stadium, prior to which Solskjaer's side will travel to Turf Moor to take on Burnley.
Pogba is unlikely to start that game given what his manager said in his post-match press conference after the victory over Newcastle.
However, the Norwegian's plans for his star midfielder could see him build up enough fitness to feature from the first minute against Arsenal.
"With Paul, it's too early to demand too much of him," said Solskjaer, as reported by the Manchester Evening News .
"He has worked hard but he has to get used to being back on a big pitch.
"We have had some 5-a-side but not with 21 other men on the pitch. He will get better and better.
"We will have to drip-feed him in and gradually play him more and more."
Arsenal play Chelsea ahead of the visit of United in what will be Mikel Arteta's first game in charge as head coach at the Emirates.
