PAUL POGBA has hit back at Roy Keane and Graeme Souness over their criticism of his performances at Manchester United by stating “they are paid to say things.”
The 26-year-old has enjoyed his best season in a Red Devils shirt to earn a spot in the Team of the Year but continues to face questions about his attitude at Old Trafford.
The Frenchman has scored 13 goals and registered nine assists but was blasted as lazy after stats revealed that he’s spent more time walking than any other midfielder.
Sky Sports pundit Souness has been one of the World Cup winner’s most vocal critics with Pogba continuing to be linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Roy Keane also had some harsh words for the France international when he was on pundit duty ahead of United’s 2-0 defeat in the Manchester derby to City.
However, the £89million star was recently hailed by his manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as “vital” to the club’s future and Pogba revealed he is unaffected by jibes at his form.
They can say what they want, they are paid for it. I’m not paid to talk.
Paul Pogba on criticism from British pundits
Speaking to French outlet RMC Sport, the former Juventus star said: “Criticism from British pundits? No worries. They are paid to say things in front of the camera.
“I’m just on the pitch. They can say what they want, they are paid for it. I’m not paid to talk. I get paid to be on the field and fight for my team. That’s all.”
Reports from Spain last week stated that United’s players are openly joking about Pogba moving to Real Madrid and Keane has accused the star of “playing for himself.”
Nottingham Forest’s No2 had said of Pogba: “I wouldn’t believe a word he says. There’s no meaning behind his words. I don’t even think he believes it himself.
“He’s talking about being a good teammate. If you want to be a good teammate then you have to run back and defend.
“The guy is a talented boy. But it’s the same things over and over again and the number of times I’ve seen him where he isn’t running back.
“He’s talking about body language and throwing his arms in the air – he’s a big problem for United.”
In his Sunday Times column this weekend, Graeme Souness had advised the Old Trafford club to sell the midfielder and “sign two £50m players instead.”
SunSport told you Pogba has been disillusioned with United following their dip in form, believing they have failed to make progress since he first left seven years ago.
Following the 1-1 stalemate against Chelsea, the club are now also unlikely to qualify for the Champions League next season, languishing in sixth with two games remaining.
