Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has defended the under-fire Paul Pogba, after the midfielder was heavily criticised for his recent performances.
United were beaten 2-0 at Old Trafford by rivals Manchester City on Wednesday night, with the defeat meaning Solskjaer’s side have now lost seven of their past nine fixtures in all competitions.
Several of the club’s stars have been fiercely criticised in recent weeks, with goalkeeper David De Gea, Ashley Young and Pogba particularly targeted.
Having starred during United’s run following Solskjaer’s initial appointment in December, Pogba has struggled of late with a series of below-par performances.
The 26-year-old has failed to score from open play since the win at Fulham in February, however, Solskjaer has defended the Frenchman’s contribution.
“That’s just the standards he sets because when he’s creating chances, scoring goals, doing loads of work everyone looks to Paul,” Solskjaer told the press ahead of Sunday’s clash with Chelsea.
”He’s done fantastic for us.
“He’s a human being as well and we’re all the same, we want him to do well.
“He’s a leader in that dressing room and on the pitch for us.”