Paul Pogba’s hamstring injury is much worse than Manchester United originally feared

Paul Pogba’s hamstring injury is even worse than first feared, with Manchester United’s medical team concerned that he may be sidelined for up to three months of the season.

The Frenchman was forced off against Basel in the Champions League during the week, with manager Jose Mourinho confirming afterwards that he had picked up a muscle injury.

Reports have since emerged claiming that the Portuguese coach was furious with his record signing, who had disobeyed the club’s medical advice and trained privately with a personal trainer.

And now The Times are reporting that Pogba could need as many as 12 weeks of rehabilitation, meaning he will not be back in a United shirt until the very end of the year.

Initial MRI scans indicate a grade three tear with potential tendon damage, and at the very least he will miss six weeks minimum, though it could be a lot more.

If Pogba is out of action for three months, he will miss all five of United’s remaining Champions League group games and a host of high-profile Premier League fixtures.

United are due to take on Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Arsenal and fierce rivals Manchester City over the coming weeks and months, with Pogba’s participation now a major doubt.

Pogba had made a stunning start to the new season, given a freer role thanks to the arrival of Nemanja Matic, and his absence will be a huge blow for United.

In his absence, Mourinho is likely to play Marouane Fellaini – who scored after replacing Pogba against Basel on Tuesday – while Ander Herrera could be given a chance to play his way back into the first team.

MORE : Jose Mourinho furious with injured Paul Pogba for ignoring Manchester United medical advice