Marcel Desailly has slammed Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba as a 'cheat' when it comes to his defensive responsibilities.
The former French and Chelsea legend believes that is the reason why the 29-year-old was dropped for United's last-16 second leg defeat to Atletico Madrid, which saw them crash out of the Champions League.
Red Devils boss opted for Fred and Scott McTominay in midfield instead on the World Cup winner.
There has long been a narrative that Pogba doesn't work hard enough, though part of that may be down to his silky style of play as he makes things appear effortless on the pitch even when playing well.
The midfielder has, however, been a key creator for the Red Devils in the Premier League this season, amassing nine assists in just 16 appearances.
Although he did bring Pogba on in mid-way through the second-half to replace Bruno Fernandes.
'Quality-wise you cannot compare Pogba to Fred, McTominay or Matic,' Desailly told beIN Sports.
'You allow him to be a playmaker behind Ronaldo he will take advantage.
'When it goes well he is fantastic but if it doesn't go well, offensively he has not brought what everyone was expecting and at the same time he will cheat a little bit.
'He will not drop back and help the midfield with the defensive intensity the team is looking for.'
Fred and Scott McTominay although reasonably solid defensively, failed to inspire United to victory, and perhaps Pogba could have done exactly that if given more time on the pitch.
The French international has had a rollercoaster stint throughout his United career, which could come to a close in the summer, when his contract expires.
Yooaclmnp
0
The truth is, Solkjaer is much better than Ragnick. Those clowns who asked for Solkjaer sacked are really clowns. You people better watch Cricket. Don't watch Football.
absolutely agreed..
Dutlpuz
2
The truth is, Solkjaer is much better than Ragnick. Those clowns who asked for Solkjaer sacked are really clowns. You people better watch Cricket. Don't watch Football.
feyabcilp
1
Bit lazy are friggin kidding he's positively friggin sleeping!! There's more movement in a picture. Russian convoys move quicker Maguire moves but he's confused he's not sure what he has to do as in who's side he's ON? Rashford has totally gone ("who really knows") but he's not and hasn't been in the right frame of mind since he came back from his shoulder injury. Bruno well what can be said about him? loads of potential and skills but what's happened at the moment he not sure what he's boots are for!!. Rangnick made five changes "didn't make one iota of difference Atletico found EASY to keep United at bay United where no threat. Too little effort United have major problems in getting back to where they believe they belong.
Belshem
5
CR7 will go trophy less for the first time in the last 12 year's
Magpie_Fan
1
Man United did not put a good reputation for English teams in the CL