Paul Pogba was NOT due to play in the cancelled Kings Cup despite being used in promotional material – as he steps up his return after doping ban was slashed

Paul Pogba was not due to play in this weekend’s cancelled Kings Cup in Dubai, Mail Sport understands.

The midfielder, who is preparing to return to professional football after the Court of Arbitration for Sport slashed his doping ban from four years to 18 months in October, was used in the promotional material in the build up to the eagerly anticipated game in the United Arab Emirates that was due to be played yesterday.

The game was cancelled at the last minute due to ‘unforeseen circumstances’ leading to disappointment from supporters due to attend the fixture.

However, despite the star-studded list of former players who were scheduled to take part in the game, including John Terry, Edgar Davids, Paul Scholes and Clarence Seedorf, it is understood Pogba’s participation was not confirmed and his connection to the game was only meant for promotional purposes.

The game was billed by many as Pogba’s comeback match after his drugs ban, however it appears that was never the case.

World Cup winner Pogba can commence his professional career in March following CAS’ ruling earlier this year.

The midfielder is able to recommence his professional career in March after his ban was cut

Pogba was used in Kings Cup promotion but his participation was never confirmed

However, the midfielder is currently without a club after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract with Juventus in November.

A host of clubs from Europe, the Middle East and the MLS are showing an interest in signing Pogba as a free agent.