He’s more showpony than playmaker

i coMPLeteLY understand Jose Mourinho’s frustrations with Paul Pogba. Manchester united have spent £89million on a player they thought was the ultimate playmaker, but too often Pogba has been a showpony, performing in fits and starts. all the ingredients are there to make a top player. he just does not seem to apply himself properly. it is why Mourinho has dropped him for Scott Mctominay who, while not possessing the same ability, has proved more reliable. We have seen the PP branding, the haircuts and the emojis. Pogba seems too focused on his image. think of the great united midfielders: Bryan robson, roy Keane, Paul Scholes. they became legends for what they did on the pitch. this is not a 19-year-old getting his first taste of stardom. Pogba is 25, has played for a top side in italy and should be relishing his second opportunity at one of the world’s biggest clubs. it is fair to say that Pogba’s distractions off the pitch will not help his relationship with Mourinho. united may finish second and win the Fa cup but, given their spending, they need to be winning Premier League titles. on the basis of this season, can Mourinho trust Pogba week in, week out to help united reach the next level? i don’t think he can. it would not be a great surprise if he discarded the midfielder — though there will always be a nagging doubt given Pogba’s undoubted talent. ultimately, it comes down to wanting a player who is reliable. that is the decision Mourinho will have to make this summer.