Oil pump pickup tube removal...how to?

In the middle of a RMS replacement, since my 01 cherokee has 160K on it, figured throw in a new oil pump for added insurance.

Bought a melling pump, did not come with a pickup tube attached. Currently trying to get the old pickup tube out of the old pump for install onto the new pump, but cannot get it loose! Any tips or tricks for removal of this pickup tube from the pump?

Thanks

From the Jeep manual.

REMOVAL
(1) Drain the engine oil.
(2) Remove the oil pan.
(3) Remove the pump-to-cylinder block attaching
bolts. Remove the pump assembly with gasket (Fig.
82).
CAUTION: If the oil pump is not to be serviced, DO
NOT disturb position of oil inlet tube and strainer
assembly in pump body. If the tube is moved within
the pump body, a replacement tube and strainer
assembly must be installed to assure an airtight
seal.