Tottenham star Moussa Sissoko comments on Manchester United man Paul Pogba

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Tottenham Hotspur star Moussa Sissoko has defended Manchester United star Paul Pogba in an interview with the Evening Standard, but has claimed that he is not “shocked” by the criticism.

Pogba, 26, is being heavily criticised for his antics off the pitch at the moment – as he continues to overcome a long-term ankle problem that has prevented him from playing since September. He last played in the 1-1 draw against Arsenal.

The former Juventus midfielder has been spotted across the pond watching Basketball, before appearing at his brother’s wedding in France last weekend – before reporting to be unwell on Sunday. Videos emerged of him dancing on Twitter.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is hoping that Pogba will return to action before the end of the year, and Tottenham star Sissoko has defended his France teammate – claiming he is not the kind of person the media are making him out to be.

“I see the stories about [Pogba] in the newspaper or on TV,” Sissoko said. “I wouldn’t say I’m shocked but the way I know him is totally different [to that]. This kind [of thing] happened to me as well. Sometimes people only see what ­happens on the pitch.

“Maybe you’re not playing well. That doesn’t mean you’re not trying to give everything. Sometimes you give everything and nothing works. Sometimes it’s because something has happened in your private life, so you’re not well. ”

“The thing to do is be yourself, stay focused on yourself, try to ignore what people are saying. The most important thing is having the confidence of your team-mates, the manager and the staff. So keep working and your quality will come back. That’s the only way to ­success again.”

TBR’s view – Is Pogba finished at Manchester United?

He has lost the love of the fans and even though Solskjaer puts on a brave face in the media and defends the French midfielder, he cannot be impressed with his antics. If Real Madrid come in with a decent offer, he will surely be sold.

United have plenty of options in the middle of the park, with Scott McTominay starring, Fred improving and plenty more. Pogba is certainly United’s best player, but he feels as though he is above the club. He needs to go.