‘Expectation too large’ on Paul Pogba says France manager

France manager Didier Deschamps says of Manchester United man Paul Pogba, 'With Paul, we always expect more ... when he does something neutral, often it is not enough'.

Manchester United's Paul Pogba reacts during the draw against Stoke City last weekend. Russell Cheyne / Reuters / October 2, 2016

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba needs to be given more time to demonstrate his quality in England as his hefty price tag has raised expectations to a very high level, France manager Didier Deschamps has said.

Pogba, who helped France reach the Euro 2016 final in July, has endured a mixed start at Old Trafford since making a world record £89 million (Dh416.3m)) move back to Manchester from Juventus in August.

Pogba was anonymous in last month's defeats to Manchester City and Feyenoord but scored his first goal for the club in an improved display in a 4-1 win over Leicester City before another lacklustre performance in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Stoke City.

“He has changed his club team and needs to find his bearing with his new teammates,” Deschamps told reporters in France.

“With Paul, we always expect more. When he does something neutral, often it is not enough. He is someone we expect to make assists in every game ... there is an expectation that is too large. Paul is okay in his own head. He knows what he wants.”

Pogba won four Serie A titles and two Coppa Italia (Italian Cup) titles during his time at Juventus.

*Reuters

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