RIO FERDINAND

Flying for France but static for United, Jose must now finally channel Pogba’s talents and unlock the ability he showed in the World Cup

fans can see for themselves the talent wasted by Mourinho’s rigid tactical approach.

The shackles must come off to allow Pogba to surge forward, break from midfield and become the force he has shown with such style this summer.

He must do the unglamorous defensive work as well, but now it will be a test of Mourinho’s management or serious questions will be asked.

Rio Ferdinand laid down the challenge to Mourinho now Pogba, 25, has proved himself on the biggest stage.

The United legend said: “He’s had a tough season in terms of the media and people within the game, but for this World Cup he was responsible and stood up to a lot of hard tests.

“It’s down to Jose now to unlock the Pogba we saw at this World Cup. He was the talisman of this team. When he played at Juventus he was affecting games, maybe United aren’t getting the ball to him in the right areas.

“At United, he’s not receiving a ball off a player like Andrea Pirlo, the balls aren’t getting to him quick enough in the right areas.

“He maybe isn’t being put in the right positions at the start of the game. And this is the manager’s job to figure it out.”

Pogba insisted the World Cup was the highlight of his career, but was careful not to criticise United.

He said: “This second star has been kindly placed on our shirt. I hope French people are proud.

“It’s a kid’s dream that comes true for me. Before the game I said we are 90 minutes from realising our dream, to be world champions, to make history, to make

France vibrate, in a way that even the current French children and the future children of those children, they would know what we have done.”

France defender Adil Rami said Pogba has taken a major step forward. The Marseille star said: “Paul became a leader. He proved it to us. He showed he is a very technical player with a lot of talent.

“He battled in defence. Everyone loves players who do step overs, nutmegs, but Paul has become a leader. He showed us the way.

“Nutmegs are not what football is about. You have to sweat, donate your body to science. Technique is great, but mental strength is more important.”