Monaco produced a resilient display to claim a 2-1 victory over Olympique de Marseille, rounding off matchday 28 of Ligue 1. It was a pivotal result in the race for European qualification for Sebastien Pocognoli's side, though they were once again without the services of Paul Pogba, who remained an unused substitute.

While still deemed to be lacking match fitness, the French international is closing in on a competitive return. Speaking to Adil Rami on Ligue 1+ after the final whistle, the Belgian coach struck an optimistic tone regarding the 2018 World Cup winner's condition.

"We are in a good position. He managed 20 minutes against Brentford in a friendly during the international break. As I always say, the collective comes first. But having Paul on the bench today shows he is already capable of contributing, both on the pitch and in the dressing room," Pocognoli explained.

Conscious of the road ahead, the Monaco boss stressed the importance of easing the midfielder back after such a long layoff.

"There are two months of the season remaining and he is coming from a long way back, but seeing him involved today is a huge positive, and that is down to his hard work. He has been a key figure in the dressing room and for the squad's mentality; I think he knows he has a part to play," he added.

Eager to maximise the midfielder's impact for the run-in, Pocognoli is focused on creating the ideal conditions for him to rediscover his best form.

"My job is to provide him with the best possible environment to give us that extra edge for the end of the campaign," he concluded.

It is a patient reintegration for Paul Pogba, but one that could provide Monaco with a major boost during the final sprint.

Paul Pogba

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