Lloris: Pogba can be a true leader

FRANCE goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has hailed United’s Paul Pogba as a ‘true leader’ who can rise to the occasion in the World Cup’s latter rounds.

Les Bleus have advanced to the quarter-finals, with 25-year-old Pogba having impressed for his country after two up-and-down seasons at Old Trafford.

Lloris has been impressed by Pogba’s development and, speaking ahead of their clash with Uruguay today, the Tottenham stopper believes the midfielder can prove himself for his country on the global stage.

“I think he’s maturing, he’s growing,” Lloris said. “He’s accumulating experience, be it with Manchester United, Juventus - now he’s lining up more seasons, more caps. He’s starting to grow in the lockerroom also and that is a good thing. He’s a true leader.

“He’s a very ambitious player. We all know he’s extremely talented and he has a lot to offer the team and his teammates. I think these big competitions are good to reveal the talent of players and I’m sure it’s going to be the case for Paul.”

Uruguay could be without striker Edinson Cavani against the French due to an injury that forced him off in the round-of-16 win over Portugal.

The Paris St Germain striker scored both goals in the victory and Lloris admits his threat is well known to the French camp.

“Cavani has been a historical figure for PSG,” Lloris added.

“He’s scored so many goals. He’s a winner, he’s a leader, he’s very much respected in France as a player but also as a man because of his values. We’re getting ready for anythin.”