PAUL OF FAME

Pogba is all smiles again and his classy play shows that he’ll be a Ballon D’Or contender says Martial

PAUL POGBA has been backed by Anthony Martial to become the world’s best player.

Pogba has been the architect of Manchester United’s perfect start to the season, scoring in both Premier League matches so far.

The £89.3million midfielder is finally living up to his billing following a worldrecord move from Juventus last summer and Martial has tipped his fellow Frenchman to scoop the Ballon d’Or in the next five years.

“Paul is mentally very strong and he’s very sure of himself,” said Martial.

“He’s a big guy, he’s very technical on the ball, and he has lots of endurance.

“I would say he’s probably the best midfield player in the world and he can get even better.

“If he continues to improve, then I think he’s going to win the Ballon d’Or award in the next five years.”

Martial (right) claims Pogba is grounded despite all the adulation currently being heaped on him.

“As a person, you can see he’s always the same,” said the striker. “He’s always smiling, and he doesn’t take himself too seriously.

“I always see him laughing. He’s the same on and off the pitch.”

Pogba has helped propel United to the top of the Premier League on the back of two 4-0 wins, their best start to a campaign in 110 years.

United went on to claim the title that season (1907-08) and already their fans are dreaming of a first Premier League crown since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.

However Old Trafford midfielder Juan Mata insists the players are not getting carried away.

The Spanish playmaker said: “One thing is for sure, we have reasons to be happy given the confidence and determination we are showing on the pitch, but we also know that this is just the beginning – there is a long way to go.”

Mata’s focus is now on Saturday evening’s home clash with Leicester and the former Chelsea star says United must grab the opportunity to make it three wins from three before the international break.

Mata wants United to sign off on a high before the twoweek break for the latest World Cup qualifiers. “The next weekend gives us the opportunity to gain momentum,” said the Spaniard.

“But Leicester are always tough opponents.

“It would be great for us to get to the first international break of the season with nine points out of nine on the board.”