Manchester United star, Paul Pogba has been tagged in the headline news after the bad day he had in Manchester United’s defeat at Newcastle United on Sunday.
Pogba, who was recently dropped against Huddersfield, during our 2-0 victory, returned to the starting lineup to face the Magpies.
Jose Mourinho, who brought in the Frenchman to Old Trafford, praised the midfielder ahead of the Newcastle game, as it was said that he was the first player to appear on the training ground – so he could ensure his first team game play back at St James’ Park on Friday before the match:
“Paul has very professional behavior and this week was not different to what Paul is every week,” said the Manchester United boss.
“I never had one single problem with him regarding his professionalism.”
The Red Devils manager has always been full of confidence when talking about the midfielder, but Paul Pogba failed to put in an impressive performance against Newcastle on Sunday, which was predicted by the lists of some betting sites like Centrebet.
Although he was not solely to blame for the loss in the North east, but if he took control and charge of the midfield as he has done before in several matches for the Red Devils this season, the match could end up in our favour.
The France international was replaced by Michael Carrick after Matt Ritchie’s opener, and was later spotted on the bench looking angry.
Mourinho was asked why he substituted Pogba in the second half, responding:
“No problems,” he told Sky Sports when asked about the France international. “I wanted a better way [in midfield] against a side that was defending in a block.
“I wanted the simplicity of Michael Carrick and I wanted Alexis closer to Lukaku where he could be like a second striker.”
The boss later showered praise on Newcastle players, saying: “They fought like animals – that’s a compliment,” he added. “They gave everything they had. The gods of football were with them but they fought like animals.
“I think it was a beautiful way to win a football match the way they did.”
Then he was asked of what he made of Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness’ comments in the Sunday Times, saying: “You ask Souness, Souness comments and is responsible for his comments. I don’t analyse players individually.”
The three points have moved Newcastle up to 13th in the Premier League table, now two points above the relegation zone.
While we are still in 2nd position Liverpool have reduced the gap to two points.
