FIFA back United over Pogba
08 Oct 2009 - 08:44:01
FIFA have told Manchester United that they are free to sign Le Havre teenager Paul Pogba.
The French club had lodged a complaint about the 16-year-old's move to Old Trafford after claiming that they had agreed to enter into a contract with the midfielder at the start of this season.
Le Havre made their complaint after Chelsea were banned from signing any new players until 2011, after FIFA accused the Blues of illegally inducing Gael Kakuta to join the club from Lens in 2007.
However, FIFA have decided that, after studying the case, Pogba was not contractually linked to Le Havre and have ruled that United did not breach any FIFA regulations.
A club spokesman told United's official website: "Manchester United is pleased to confirm that the Football Association has been authorised by FIFA to register Paul Pogba as a United player with immediate effect."
Le Havre have the right to appeal FIFA's decision.
Meanwhile, Owen Hargreaves can't wait to return to first-team action after enduring double knee surgery.
He has been sidelined for over 12 months, but hopes to return to action in November. He said: "I can't wait to get back involved in it all.
"I can't wait to play again for United, to be able to pull on the shirt and have an effect on games. Running out at Old Trafford will be a big thing for me. It'll be amazing.
"The reception I've had has been great. That was one of the things that I really missed, being with the guys in the dressing room.
"There's such a great energy around this club. It's fantastic being back in with all the different characters and personalities."