Paul Pogba explains the new tactics that have him playing 'like Pirlo'
France's midfielder Paul Pogba celebrates his team's victory at the end of the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifying football match Netherlands vs France on October 10, 2016 at the Amsterdam Arena in Amsterdam. / AFP PHOTO / EMMANUEL DUNANDEMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images
Paul Pogba claims he’s willing to work on his defending as he attempts to adapt to Jose Mourinho’s tactics.
The Man United midfielder scored the winner in France’s 1-0 win over Holland yesterday, and has admitted he’s more comfortable in a more advanced midfield role.
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"I try to adapt," he told journalists after last night's game.
"I am a player who would rather go forward. The coach gave me instructions, I try to follow them. I have to retrieve balls and make defensive efforts.
"It cost me a bit to play differently, much like (former Juventus team mate Andrea) Pirlo. I have to play, be there to recover and play more for the team."
The 23 year old has been criticised for neglecting his defensive duties for his club, with Jamie Carragher labelling his performance in the Manchester derby as "ill-disciplined."
Pogba has been deployed as one of two holding midfielders by Jose Mourinho this season, and has only shown brief flashes of why the Manchester club forked out £89 million for his services.
He has scored one goal in eight appearances so far, and seems to be suffering from being utilised in a deeper role by Mourinho.
