Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has backed teammate Paul Pogba to fulfil his potential and justify his world record transfer fee.
Paul Pogba joined boyhood club Manchester United from Juventus in the summer transfer window for a world record transfer fee of £89 million. The move was seen as a signal of intent from the Red Devils as they finally seemed to have addressed the midfield concerns that have plagued the club since the retirement of club legend Paul Scholes.
Pobga, however, has had an inconsistent start to life back in Manchester, much to the frustration of the Old Trafford faithful. With one good performance being followed by a few underwhelming displays, it has not quite been the bed of roses that United fans had envisioned back in August.
Club veteran Michael Carrick, though, has asked for patience from the fans and critics as he believes that Pogba needs to be given time to adapt to English football.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Carrick said: “There’s a lot made of Paul. I suppose because of the fee and the headlines he grabs. But, at the same time it is not easy coming in and hitting the ground running, be at top form. At this club for starters – changing leagues, changing countries. There are all sorts of things that come into it.”
He also went on to add that it is only a matter of time before the France international comes good and delivers on his potential. “I mean the attributes he has are incredible,” Carrick added. “We all saw the goal against Swansea. Physically, he is pretty much perfect. He’s such a specimen and he can cover ground. The ability he’s got is something very special. He’s going to be such a great player. He’s already such a top player and I’m sure he’s going to improve.”
Carrick also said that Pogba is “well aware” that his performances will always remain under the microscope, and that the Frenchman is determined to be more consistent. The signs were definitely there for everyone to see in Manchester United’s last Premier League encounter, as they convincingly won 3-1 at Swansea City immediately before the beginning of the international break.
Pogba played a key role in the victory as he scored a classy long range goal and was adjudged the Man of the Match, indicating that he might be hitting his stride at long last. As fierce rivals Arsenal come calling this weekend, Pogba will be in the spotlight once again, and he will be keen to follow the performance at the Liberty Stadium with another eye-catching display on Saturday.
