Hughton fears world-beater
CHRIS HUGHTON is worried Paul Pogba will reproduce his World Cup-winning form against his Brighton side tomorrow.
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho praised the France midfielder yesterday for his performance in their win against Leicester last week.
He also denied reports of a bust-up between the pair.
And ahead of United’s visit to the Amex Seagulls boss Hughton (right)
insisted that United’s
£89m record signing will be a major threat.
“He’s a very, very good player,” said Hughton.
“We have to guard against that tactically.
He’s showed that in the summer, he showed that in good periods at United.
“He’s very much capable of having a good season. He is 6ft
2in, a wonderful athlete, can break from midfield and what he has shown is the passing ability that he’s got.
“If you look at his technical abilities, he’s a wonderful all-round footballer.
“They got off to a winning start last week. With the quality they have, you would expect them to be right up there again.”
Brighton will be attempting to complete an unlikely hat-trick of home triumphs over Manchester United following a win in their last game at the Amex last season which guaranteed Premier League survival – and a victory in the old First Division back in November 1982.
The newly-promoted team played the Reds three times last season, including an FA Cup tie in March, and Hughton added: “We did well in all three games.
“People certainly remember the home game towards the end of last season. We will need to get to those levels again and take the inspiration from that.”
Brighton spent £60m in the summer but only one new signing – Brazilian full-back Bernardo – started in the opening-day defeat at Watford.
Lewis Dunk will captain in the absence of hamstring victim Bruno but Hughton has to decide whether to give the old guard another chance tomorrow.
He said: “I was very disappointed with last week. It was not a performance at the level expected. “I have to decide to make changes or look for a reaction.” Hughton admitted the extra spending brought extra pressure for a club who will face last season’s top four over the course of their next six Premier League games. Owner and chairman Tony Bloom, who has targeted winning away points against the top six this season, said: “I think, for sure, this squad of players is the strongest this football club has ever had.”